Where+are+we?

The Earth follows an elliptical orbit around the Sun. The locations of the sunrise and sunset are indicators of the Earth's location on its orbital path.

During this year, you will observe the location of the sunrise and sunset at least seven times each (fourteen times total). You will record your observations in your notebook, on four pages.

For each observation, you should note the time and location of the sunrise. You must make your observations from the same spot each time. From this spot, you must have a clear view of the horizon. You can only make observations on a clear day. The spot you use for observing the sunset does not have to be the same spot you use for observing the sunrise.

Sketch the horizon that you see. Include at least two landmarks. Repeat this sketch each time you make an observation, and mark the location of the sunrise with an arrow.

You will make observations on (or close to) these days: The fall equinox (September 22) The winter solstice (December 22) The spring equinox (March 22) The summer solstice (June 22) A day halfway between each of these events.