How Long After Sunset Does It Get Dark London?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever wondered how long after sunset it takes for it to get completely dark in London? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think, as there are many factors that can affect the duration of twilight.

The Science of Twilight

Twilight is the period of time between sunrise or sunset and complete darkness or daylight. During this time, the sky is still illuminated by the sun’s rays, even though it is below the horizon. There are three types of twilight: civil twilight, nautical twilight and astronomical twilight.

  • Civil Twilight: This is the period when the sun is less than 6 degrees below the horizon. At this time, there is enough light to carry out most outdoor activities without artificial lighting.
  • Nautical Twilight: This occurs when the sun is between 6 and 12 degrees below the horizon.

    It is called nautical twilight because at this time sailors can still navigate using the stars.

  • Astronomical Twilight: This is when the sun is between 12 and 18 degrees below the horizon. At this point, most stars are visible in the sky.

The Duration of Twilight in London

The duration of twilight in London varies depending on several factors such as season, latitude, and weather conditions. In general, during summer months (June-August), twilight lasts longer than in winter months (December-February).

On average, civil twilight lasts for about 34 minutes after sunset in London. Nautical twilight lasts for about an hour and a half after sunset while astronomical twilight can last up to two hours after sunset.

It’s important to note that these times are just estimates and can vary based on several factors such as weather conditions and atmospheric pressure.

Why Does It Matter?

Knowing how long twilight lasts can be important for planning outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or outdoor photography. It’s also helpful for those who enjoy stargazing as astronomical twilight is the best time to observe stars and other celestial bodies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the duration of twilight in London varies depending on several factors such as season and weather conditions. On average, civil twilight lasts for about 34 minutes after sunset while nautical twilight can last up to an hour and a half, and astronomical twilight up to two hours after sunset. Remember that these times are just estimates and can vary based on several factors.