When the Sun Goes Down: Sunset Times in January 2025

August 14, 2024
what time is sunset in january 2025

When the Sun Goes Down: Sunset Times in January 2025

The term “what time is sunset in january 2025” refers to the specific moment when the sun dips below the horizon in the evening during January 2025. It is a question often asked to plan outdoor activities, photography sessions, or simply to appreciate the beauty of nature’s transition from day to night.

Knowing the sunset time holds practical importance, as it helps individuals adjust their schedules and make the most of daylight hours. It is also a valuable piece of information for astronomers, meteorologists, and navigators who rely on celestial events for their work.

To determine the exact sunset time for a specific location in January 2025, one can consult astronomical almanacs, online calculators, or reputable sources that provide such data. These resources take into account factors like geographical coordinates, time zones, and atmospheric conditions to provide accurate sunset time predictions.

1. Seasonal Variation

The Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun significantly influence the timing of sunset throughout the year. As the Earth revolves around the sun, different parts of the planet are tilted towards or away from the sun, resulting in varying amounts of daylight and darkness.

  • Axial Tilt: The Earth’s axis is tilted at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees, causing the Northern and Southern Hemispheres to experience different seasons as the Earth orbits the sun. During the summer months, the hemisphere tilted towards the sun receives more direct sunlight, resulting in longer days and later sunsets.
  • Orbital Ellipticity: The Earth’s orbit around the sun is not a perfect circle but rather an ellipse, with the sun located at one of the foci. This elliptical orbit means that the Earth’s distance from the sun varies throughout the year, affecting the duration of daylight and the time of sunset.
  • Latitude: The latitude of a location plays a crucial role in determining sunset times. Locations closer to the equator experience less variation in sunset times throughout the year, while regions at higher latitudes experience more significant variations.
  • Daylight Saving Time: In many countries, Daylight Saving Time (DST) is observed during specific months, typically during the summer. DST involves advancing clocks by one hour, resulting in later sunset times during the evening.

Understanding the connection between seasonal variation and sunset timings is essential for comprehending the dynamic nature of sunset times and their implications for various activities. It helps us appreciate the Earth’s unique astronomical characteristics and their impact on our daily lives.

2. Geographic Location

The relationship between geographic location and sunset time is an intrinsic aspect of understanding “what time is sunset in January 2025.” Geographic location, specifically longitude and latitude, plays a crucial role in determining the exact time of sunset for a given location on Earth.


Longitude: Longitude refers to the angular distance east or west of the prime meridian (0 degrees longitude), which passes through Greenwich, England. Locations with different longitudes experience sunset at different times. As the Earth rotates from west to east, the sun appears to move across the sky from east to west. Therefore, locations with a more easterly longitude will see the sun set earlier than locations with a more westerly longitude.


Latitude: Latitude refers to the angular distance north or south of the equator (0 degrees latitude). Latitude primarily affects the duration of daylight hours, with higher latitudes experiencing more significant variations in daylight hours throughout the year. However, latitude also influences the time of sunset to some extent. Locations at higher latitudes (closer to the poles) tend to have earlier sunsets during the winter months and later sunsets during the summer months, compared to locations at lower latitudes (closer to the equator).

Considering the geographic location when determining sunset times is essential for accurate predictions and planning. It enables us to account for the Earth’s curvature and the varying angles at which sunlight reaches different parts of the planet. This understanding is particularly important for activities that rely on precise sunset timings, such as navigation, astronomy, and photography.

3. Time Zone

The concept of time zones is inextricably linked to the determination of “what time is sunset in January 2025.” Time zones are established to synchronize clocks within a specific geographic region, ensuring uniformity in timekeeping and daily activities. As the Earth rotates on its axis, different parts of the planet experience sunlight and darkness at varying times. To account for these differences, the globe is divided into 24 time zones, each spanning 15 degrees of longitude.

The time zone in which a location is situated directly influences the time of sunset. Locations within the same time zone experience sunset at approximately the same time, while locations in different time zones will have different sunset times. For example, if the sunset time in New York City (Eastern Time Zone) is 5:30 PM, the sunset time in Los Angeles (Pacific Time Zone), which is three hours behind, will be 2:30 PM.

Understanding the relationship between time zones and sunset times is essential for various reasons. It allows us to coordinate schedules, plan travel itineraries, and communicate effectively across different regions. Accurate sunset time information is also crucial for activities such as navigation, astronomy, and photography, where precise timing is paramount.

FAQs on “What Time Is Sunset in January 2025”

This FAQ section provides concise answers to commonly asked questions related to sunset timings in January 2025, aiming to clarify any doubts or misconceptions.

Question 1: What factors influence the time of sunset in January 2025?

Answer: The time of sunset in January 2025 is determined by a combination of factors, including the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun, the geographic location (longitude and latitude), and the time zone in which a location is situated.

Question 2: How can I find out the exact sunset time for a specific location in January 2025?

Answer: To determine the exact sunset time for a specific location, you can consult reputable sources such as astronomical almanacs, online calculators, or weather websites that provide accurate sunset time predictions based on geographical coordinates and time zone information.

Question 3: Is the sunset time the same all over the world in January 2025?

Answer: No, the sunset time varies across the globe in January 2025 due to differences in geographic location and time zones. Locations with different longitudes and latitudes experience sunset at different times, and time zones further adjust the sunset time for synchronization within specific regions.

Question 4: Why is it important to know the sunset time in January 2025?

Answer: Knowing the sunset time in January 2025 is important for planning outdoor activities, adjusting schedules, setting up lighting, and appreciating the beauty of nature’s transition from day to night. It also has practical significance in fields such as photography, astronomy, and navigation.

Question 5: How does Daylight Saving Time affect sunset times in January 2025?

Answer: Daylight Saving Time (DST) is not typically observed in January, so it generally does not affect sunset times during that month. However, if DST is implemented in a specific region, it can advance the sunset time by one hour, resulting in later sunsets during the evening.

Question 6: What other factors can influence sunset times besides the Earth’s rotation and orbit?

Answer: While the Earth’s rotation and orbit are the primary factors determining sunset times, certain atmospheric conditions, such as cloud cover and refraction, can also affect the exact timing and appearance of the sunset.

In summary, understanding the factors that influence sunset times and having access to accurate sunset time information is essential for various practical and aesthetic reasons. Whether you’re planning an outdoor event, capturing stunning photographs, or simply admiring the beauty of nature, knowing “what time is sunset in January 2025” empowers you to make the most of the day’s transition into night.

Continue reading for more insights into the significance and implications of sunset times.

Tips Related to “What Time Is Sunset in January 2025”

Understanding the concept of sunset timings and the factors that influence them can be beneficial in various situations. Here are some tips to enhance your knowledge and make the most of sunset-related information:

Tip 1: Utilize Accurate Sources

When seeking information about sunset times, rely on reputable sources such as astronomical almanacs, weather websites, or specialized apps. These sources provide precise sunset time predictions based on geographical coordinates and time zone data, ensuring accuracy.

Tip 2: Consider Geographic Variations

Remember that sunset times vary across the globe due to differences in longitude, latitude, and time zones. When planning activities or events that involve sunset, take into account the specific geographic location and adjust your schedule accordingly.

Tip 3: Plan Outdoor Activities Strategically

Knowing the sunset time allows you to plan outdoor activities strategically. For instance, if you want to enjoy an evening picnic or photography session during the golden hour, you can schedule it around the time of sunset for optimal lighting conditions.

Tip 4: Adjust Lighting Arrangements

Sunset times can influence the need for artificial lighting. By being aware of when the sun will set, you can plan your lighting arrangements accordingly, ensuring adequate illumination as natural light diminishes.

Tip 5: Appreciate the Natural Beauty

Sunset times offer an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature’s transition from day to night. Take some time to observe the changing colors of the sky, the silhouette of the landscape, and the play of light and shadow.

Tip 6: Explore Cultural Significance

Sunset times have cultural significance in many societies. Understanding the role of sunset in different cultures can provide insights into traditions, beliefs, and artistic expressions.

By following these tips, you can enhance your understanding of sunset timings and their implications. Whether you’re planning an event, seeking inspiration, or simply appreciating the beauty of nature, having a grasp of “what time is sunset in January 2025” empowers you to make informed decisions and maximize your experiences.

Bringing It All Together

The exploration of “what time is sunset in January 2025” encompasses a confluence of factors that shape this celestial event. Understanding the interplay between the Earth’s rotation, geographical location, and time zones is essential for accurately determining sunset times.

Whether for practical purposes, aesthetic pursuits, or cultural appreciation, knowledge of sunset timings empowers us to plan activities, adjust schedules, and revel in the beauty of nature’s transition. As we enter January 2025, this understanding will continue to serve us, allowing us to make the most of the day’s end and embrace the captivating spectacle of the setting sun.