Why is the Earth closest to the Sun in January? It is so cold, and I freeze most of that month! I have to have at least 5 or 6 blankets on me. — Stephanie of Pacifica, CA

Dear Stephanie,

The Earth travels around the Sun in an elliptical (oval-shaped) path. Because its orbit is not an exact circle, the Earth is closer to the Sun at certain times. During January, the Earth is closest to the Sun. The United States experiences winter during that month because of the Earth’s tilt. The United States is located in the top half of the Earth (the Northern Hemisphere). During January, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun. This causes the Sun's rays to hit that part of the Earth at a slant. Slanted rays do not produce as much heat as direct rays. This also causes the days to become shorter. Shorter days and slanted rays cause cooler temperatures.

I know its cold now where you live. But in a few months it will be warm again. Then you can put all of those blankets back into storage for next winter. Until then, keep warm!