Autumnal Equinox Will Arrive on September 23, 2026
The upcoming celestial event marks the official end of summer and the beginning of the autumn season globally.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Forecasts
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The autumnal equinox will occur on September 23, 2026, as the Sun moves directly overhead at the Equator at 3:05 a.m. This transition signals the end of a 93-day summer and the start of an astronomical autumn lasting 89 days, 20 hours, and 45 minutes.
Why it matters
The equinox serves as a key astronomical marker that triggers seasonal shifts across the planet, including changing light patterns and the gradual transition toward winter. Following this date, nights will become progressively longer in many regions while the Sun begins its southward journey.
On the equinox, daylight will last 12 hours and 7 minutes, while night will span 11 hours and 53 minutes. The Sun will rise in Amman at 6:26 a.m. and set at 6:36 p.m. local time.
The players
Amman
Amman is the capital city of Jordan where sunrise and sunset times are observed for the equinox.
The details
Following the equinox, the Sun will disappear from the North Pole for six months of darkness while the South Pole enters six months of continuous daylight. By December 22, the Sun will be overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn, marking the winter solstice and the start of the 40-day Al-Murabba'aniya winter period.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: The autumnal equinox occurs at 3:05 a.m.
December 22, 2026: The winter solstice begins.
Seasonal Patterns
This transition follows the established pattern of the Al-Murabba'aniya 40-day winter period, which traditionally begins on the winter solstice.
Residents should prepare for shorter days and longer nights as the season progresses. No specific safety advisories are required for this standard astronomical transition.
The takeaway
The equinox provides a consistent reminder of the Earth's orbital relationship with the Sun. Observers can anticipate a steady increase in nighttime hours leading up to the December solstice.
Further reading
Learn more about upcoming celestial transitions in the Forecasts section.
Live Poll
Do you find the transition to shorter, colder days typically improves or worsens your overall mood?
