The Natural Navigator» summer solstice

Happy Summer Solstice

admin — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 07:40:54 +0000

The sun has reached its northernmost bus stop, it has put on the handbrake for a second and has now, already, begun its journey back south.

At this time of year the sun lights up the countryside in early morning and late evening in a way that is unique. The light pours in from low in the northeastern and northwestern sky. This picture could not be taken at any other time, as the morning light is filtered through gaps in the woods to the northeast of where I live. It lights up strips and leaves the rest of the fields in shade.

A belated thanks to everyone who came to my talks and walks at the North Kent Walking Festival and the Travel Bookshop last week.

Happy Summer Solstice

admin — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 18:18:30 +0000

Happy Summer Solstice everyone. Sunrise and sunset will be closer to north than east or west at this time of year for most of Scotland.

This photo is taken looking southeast. The setting sunlight can be seen bouncing off the northwestern edges of the clouds.

Equal joys, Different Reasons

admin — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 06:35:00 +0000

Everywhere I go at the moment I am reminded of cycles. Not the type that the Dutch and Boris Johnson are so keen on, no, the natural cycles. The countryside is abuzz at the moment. My sons and I love it when we come across a combine harvester and tractor at work like this. I get excited because it reminds me that we are well past the summer solstice and can start looking forward to the autumnal equinox. Their reasons are probably better.