Will there be a 2025 equinox?
Yes. There will be two equinoxes in 2025—the vernal (spring) equinox and the autumnal (fall) equinox. Equinoxes occur twice each year when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, producing nearly equal day and night. In 2025, the vernal equinox is expected on March 20, and the autumnal equinox on September 23, though exact times vary by time zone.
What is an equinox?
An equinox is one of two moments in the year when the tilt of the Earth's axis is inclined neither toward nor away from the Sun. On these days, the length of day and night is almost the same. The vernal equinox marks the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, while the autumnal equinox marks the start of autumn. In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are opposite, so the vernal equinox corresponds to autumn there and vice versa.
Dates for 2025
The two equinoxes for 2025 fall on these commonly cited calendar days. Exact times depend on your location and the astronomical model used.
Below are the two equinoxes for 2025 with their commonly cited dates.
- Vernal (spring) equinox: around March 20, 2025
- Autumnal (fall) equinox: around September 23, 2025
Note that some sources might list March 20 and September 22 for certain time zones or observational models. For planning, treat these as approximate and consult a reputable local astronomy resource for precise timing in your area.
Why it matters
Observation and cultural significance
Different cultures mark equinoxes with ceremonies, festivals, and seasonal rituals. Observatories and weather services also highlight these dates as reference points for daylight patterns and astronomical events.
Precise timing and how to verify
Exact moments of the equinox are defined in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and can vary by a minute or two depending on the year and the observational model used. If you need the precise moment for a specific location, check with authoritative sources such as the U.S. Naval Observatory, timeanddate.com, or a local astronomical society.
Summary
In 2025, there will be two equinoxes: the vernal equinox around March 20 and the autumnal equinox around September 23. These dates indicate the seasonal turning points and are accompanied by slight regional variations in the exact moment of the event. For exact timing in your region, consult a trusted astronomical source.
