When Does Night Start? A Guide to the Evening Hours

Have you ever wondered when night actually starts? It’s a common question, especially as the sky changes colors and the day winds down. Scientifically, night begins when the sun is 18 degrees below the horizon, marking the end of astronomical twilight.

For most people, though, nightfall feels like it starts around 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, when the sky is fully dark. In this article, we’ll dive into the different phases of the evening, from dusk to nightfall, and explore how each phase signals the transition from day to night.

Defining Night: General Overview

Night is typically defined as the period from sunset to sunrise when the sun is below the horizon. This time frame is characterized by darkness, cooler temperatures, and the absence of direct sunlight.

Scientifically, night begins when the sun is 18 degrees below the horizon, marking the end of astronomical twilight. During this phase, the sky is completely dark, and stars and other celestial bodies become visible to the naked eye.

In everyday terms, night is the time when the sky is fully dark, and people usually associate it with rest, sleep, and a quieter environment. It’s a period that contrasts with the bustling activities of the day, offering a time for relaxation and unwinding.

Different cultures and regions may have their own interpretations and rituals associated with night, but universally, it is recognized as a time of calm and stillness.

When Does Night Officially Start?

Determining the exact time when night officially starts can vary based on different perspectives, but a common consensus places it around 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This timing is when the sky is fully dark, and the last traces of twilight have vanished.

Scientifically, night begins when the sun is 18 degrees below the horizon, which marks the end of astronomical twilight. At this point, the sky is entirely devoid of sunlight, allowing stars and other celestial bodies to shine brightly.

For practical purposes, many people consider night to start once evening activities wind down, and darkness fully sets in. This is often the time when families finish dinner, streetlights illuminate neighborhoods, and the hustle and bustle of the day gives way to quieter, more relaxed activities.

Different regions and cultures might have slight variations in defining the start of night based on local customs and lifestyles, but the underlying principle remains the same: night begins when the environment transitions into complete darkness, signaling the end of the day and the start of the night.

The Transition from Day to Night

The transition from day to night is a fascinating process marked by gradual changes in light and atmosphere. This period can be broken down into distinct phases, each with its own characteristics.

Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Morning starts with the break of dawn and extends until noon. During this time, the sun rises, bringing daylight and warmth. People begin their daily routines, including commuting to work or school, exercising, and having breakfast. The morning light is often soft and golden, providing a sense of renewal and energy for the day ahead.

Noon/Midday: 12:00 PM

Noon is the middle of the day when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. It marks the transition from morning to afternoon and is often associated with lunch breaks and a brief respite from morning activities. Noon is characterized by bright sunlight and can be the warmest part of the day.

Afternoon: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Afternoon marks the latter part of the daytime, usually characterized by bright sunlight and peak temperatures. Activities are still in full swing, with people at work, school, or engaged in various outdoor activities. As the afternoon progresses, the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, and shadows grow longer.

Evening: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Evening signals the beginning of the end of the day. The sun sets during this time, creating beautiful hues of orange, pink, and purple in the sky. This phase often brings a sense of winding down, as people return home from work, have dinner, and prepare for the night ahead. The temperature starts to drop, and artificial lights begin to illuminate streets and homes.

Dusk

Dusk is the brief period just after sunset when the sky is still light but the sun is no longer visible. It’s a time when the first stars and planets start to appear. The light fades quickly, making way for deeper darkness. This phase has a serene and tranquil quality, often prompting people to enjoy outdoor activities like evening walks or sitting on the porch.

Twilight

Twilight is divided into three stages, each marking a deeper transition into night:

• Civil Twilight: This stage occurs right after sunset and lasts until the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon. There is still enough light for most outdoor activities without artificial lighting.
• Nautical Twilight: Following civil twilight, this stage ends when the sun is 12 degrees below the horizon. The horizon is still visible at sea, and the first brighter stars are prominent.
• Astronomical Twilight: The final stage of twilight ends when the sun is 18 degrees below the horizon. The sky becomes completely dark, making it ideal for stargazing and astronomical observations.

Nightfall: Around 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Nightfall is when it becomes fully dark, and night officially begins. The last vestiges of twilight disappear, and the sky is adorned with stars, planets, and sometimes the moon. Nightfall signals the time for rest and relaxation. Streetlights and indoor lighting become essential, and nocturnal activities, both human and natural, take over.

Midnight: 12:00 AM

Midnight is the exact middle of the night, marking the transition from one day to the next. It is often associated with the deepest part of the night, where darkness is at its peak, and most daily activities have ceased. Midnight holds significant cultural and symbolic meaning, often representing a time of quiet reflection or new beginnings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the start of night vary by location?

Yes, the start of night can vary significantly depending on your geographical location. Factors like latitude and time of year play a crucial role. For example, near the equator, night falls relatively quickly after sunset, while in higher latitudes, twilight periods can be much longer, especially in summer and winter.

2. How do time zones affect the start of night?

Time zones can affect the perception of when night starts, as they standardize time across large regions. This means that while it might be dark in one part of a time zone, it could still be daylight in another part. The actual time when night starts can feel different depending on where you are within a time zone.

3. How does weather influence the perception of when night starts?

Weather conditions, such as cloud cover and storms, can influence the perception of when night starts. Overcast skies can make it feel like night arrives earlier due to the reduced visibility and darker conditions, even if the official time for night has not yet arrived.

4. Why is it darker in some areas than others at the same time?

Local factors such as topography, urban lighting, and vegetation can influence how dark it gets in different areas. Rural areas with fewer artificial lights will experience a more pronounced onset of darkness compared to urban areas with extensive street lighting and building lights.