The term perihelion is derived from the Greek words peri (near) and helios (sun). Because Earth's orbit is an rather than a perfect circle, the distance between our planet and the Sun varies by about 3 million miles throughout the year.
Our orbit is not a perfect circle but an ellipse (an oval shape), meaning we are constantly moving slightly toward or away from the Sun throughout the year. Why Isn't It Hotter? when the earth is closest to the sun
Look at your angle. Check your tilt.
This moment is called perihelion—the instant when our planet is closer to the Sun than at any other time during the year. In 2026, Explore Scientific The term perihelion is derived from the Greek