Changing Sunlight, Weather & Climate

This article explores how Earth's position relative to the Sun and solar activity affects weather and climate globally. By comparing daily sunlight data across different latitudes, the study aims to enhance understanding of climate change and seasonal weather variations.

1. Earth-Sun Geometry:

• Earth's orbit around the barycentre of the solar system defines its changing relationship with the Sun.

• Key variables include the distance between the Earth and Sun and the declination of Earth's equatorial plane.

2. Distance to the Sun:

• Daily data from NASA JPL highlights how the Earth-Sun distance affects solar intensity; closer distances yield stronger sunlight.

• Changes in distance over time can be visualized and compared to data from 1920.

3. Declination Changes:

• Earth's axial tilt causes variations in the Sun's zenith angle throughout the year.

• Changes in declination also depend on the movement of Jupiter, affecting how solar radiation reaches the Earth's surface.

4. Solar Constant Variability:

• The power output of the Sun is generally stable but fluctuates, which can be related to sunspot activity.

• Recent satellite data has provided accurate measurements of the solar constant.

5. Trends in Solar Intensity:

• An evaluation of maximum daily average solar intensity shows a recorded upward trend over the years across various latitudes.

• Significant warming trends have been identified in specific latitudinal regions.

6. Poleward Heat Advection:

• Heat is transferred from the tropics to the poles, significantly influencing climate patterns.

• Solar intensity contributes to this heat advection, creating climatic differences between hemispheres.

7. Surface Temperature Responses:

• Surface temperatures worldwide are closely linked to solar intensity, with notable differences between hemispheres.

• Temperature responses vary based on solar intensity changes, allowing for predictions about seasonal shifts.

8. Forecasting Weather and Climate:

• Historical data allows for forecasting future weather patterns, showcasing how solar intensity influences yearly climate variations.

• A matrix is provided to visualize seasonal solar changes across different latitudes.

Understanding the complex relationship between Earth and the Sun is essential for grasping the driving forces behind weather and climate changes. By analyzing various data points, including solar intensity and distance changes, this article emphasizes the need for continued study in this area to better predict and respond to future climate trends. 

https://wattsupwiththat.com/2026/01/26/changing-sunlight-weather-climate/