For example: the autumnal equinox was yesterday, but meteorological autumn starts September 1st. Why the disconnect?
In: Planetary Science
Meteorological seasons are based on grouping the year into three-month chunks. The goal is to divide the year up equally and not overthink it. When does fall-like weather start? Sometime in September, so we’ll just set the start date at September 1 and run it from there.
Astronomical seasons are based on actual events: the solstices and equinoxes. This grounds it in something observable — but it also makes it more confusing. The seasons start on different days every year depending on when the event takes place, and the seasons are all different lengths. Also, the first day that feels like Spring doesn’t necessarily happen on the Spring equinox, so it’s not even that helpful.
So meteorological seasons are better for general use, where astronomical seasons are better for astronomers and other nerds.
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