Spring Equinox

The spring (or vernal) equinox occurs tomorrow, March 20, 2021.

The spring equinox marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. It marks the point when the sun crosses the celestial equator going from south to north. 

Signs of Spring

Have you noticed day length slowly increasing or any seasonal signs of spring? Many Journey North citizen scientists are picking up on small, subtle changes that accompany seasonal transitions. And the return of certain plant and animal species are welcome sights.

Catherine in Freehold, NJ: "Definitely lighter later." (02/20/2021)

Linda in Lampe, MO: "The first Tree Swallows arrived at Mill Creek Campground this morning." (03/07/2021)

Janet in Cedar Creek, TX: "First blooming Bluebonnet in our neighborhood." (03/14/2021)

Kim in Cambridge, MN: "Sandhill Cranes back to their usual nest site." (03/16/2021)

How to Participate

• Report you day length for March 20, 2021.
• Report seasonal signs of spring.

How to Report your Day Length (Photoperiod)

Step 1: Look up your sunrise/sunset on the 20th of every month.

Step 2: Calculate the length of time between sunrise and sunset. 

Step 3: Report your day length on the 20th of every month.

Step 4: Explore the Daylight map and compare your part of the world with other locations as the Earth revolves around the Sun.