Winter Solstice at the UMass Sunwheel
You are invited to witness the passing of the seasons by joining Dr. Judith Young of the UMass Amherst Deptartment of Astronomy to watch the Sun rise and set over the tall standing stones in the UMass Sunwheel for the Winter Solstice of 2006. The sunrise and sunset events will be held on both Thursday and Friday, December 21 and 22, 2006. This is when the Sun is at its most southerly position rising and setting for all observers on Earth.
Visitors for the sunrise viewing should arrive at 7:00 a.m., and visitors for the sunset viewing should arrive at 3:30 p.m.
The gatherings are held in all types of weather except rain. In the event of rain, visitors are encouraged to visit the Sunwheel on their own at any time.
Directions & Parking
The UMass Sunwheel is located south of Alumni Stadium, just off Rocky Hill Road. It can be reached from the center of Amherst, following Amity St. to the west. After crossing University Dr. at the light, continue on Rocky Hill Rd. for about 1/4 mile, and make your first right onto Stadium Dr.