What is the Autumnal Equinox?

An Equinox happens twice every year. The spring equinox (vernal) has passed, and on September 22, 2009 we will have the fall equinox (autumnal). At the time of the equinox, the night and day are approximately equally long.

The name "equinox" is from the Latin word aequus (equal) and nox (night). At an equinox, the Sun is at one of two opposite points on the celestial sphere. These points of intersection are called equinoctial points: the vernal point and the autumnal point.

An equinox happens every year around March 20/21 and September 22/23. These are two specific moments in time, not two whole days.

What does this mean to us?  Our days will be getting shorter. Fall is truly here and colder weather is on the way.  Get warm with our coats and hoodies.