Spring Equinox: Exact date and time when the seasons will change across the globe

The arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere will be officially marked this Friday as the Spring Equinox occurs, signalling a seasonal shift that brings longer days, milder temperatures, and renewed natural activity.

Astronomically, the Spring Equinox date in 2026 falls on Friday, March 20, when day and night are nearly equal across the world, a phenomenon that has fascinated observers for centuries.

Spring Equinox time: When exactly does it happen?

According to astronomical data, the Spring Equinox time this year occurs at precisely 14:46 UTC on March 20. This marks the exact moment when the Sun crosses the Earth’s equator moving northward, as per a report by Forbes.

The phenomenon is defined by NASA as the point when the Sun shines directly over the equator, resulting in nearly equal hours of daylight and darkness across the planet.

In practical terms, regions around the world will experience close to 12 hours of day and 12 hours of night, giving rise to the term “equinox,” derived from Latin words meaning “equal night.”

What causes the Spring Equinox?

The Spring Equinox is a direct result of Earth’s axial tilt of approximately 23.4 degrees as it orbits the Sun. During this specific moment, neither hemisphere is tilted toward or away from the Sun.

As a result:

• The Northern Hemisphere begins receiving more sunlight, marking the onset of spring
  
  
• The Southern Hemisphere starts tilting away, signalling the beginning of autumn

The equinox also places the Sun in the constellation Pisces, positioned directly above the equator at midday.

A celestial highlight: Moon meets Venus

Skywatchers are in for an added treat this year. Shortly after sunset on March 20, a delicate crescent Moon will appear close to the bright planet Venus in the west-southwestern sky.

The pairing is expected to create a striking visual, particularly in areas with clear skies, offering a fitting celestial companion to the seasonal transition.

Equinoxes and solstices in 2026

Equinoxes and solstices divide the year into astronomical seasons. While equinoxes mark moments of equal day and night, solstices represent the extremes, the longest and shortest days of the year.

Key dates for 2026 include:

• Spring Equinox date: March 20
  
  
• Summer solstice: June 21
  
  
• Autumn equinox: September 22
  
  
• Winter solstice: December 21

These events occur due to the Earth’s changing orientation relative to the Sun as it travels along its orbit.

Why the Spring Equinox matters

Beyond its astronomical significance, the Spring Equinox has cultural, agricultural, and ecological importance. It marks the beginning of planting seasons in many regions and has been celebrated historically in festivals across civilizations.

The increasing daylight following the equinox also influences weather patterns, animal behaviour, and plant growth, reinforcing its role as a natural turning point in the yearly cycle.

FAQs

What is the Spring Equinox date in 2026?

The Spring Equinox date in 2026 is Friday, March 20.

What is the exact Spring Equinox time this year?

The Spring Equinox time is 14:46 UTC on March 20, 2026.