AUSTIN (KXAN) -- While meteorological winter began on Dec. 1, Astronomical winter begins this Saturday, Dec. 21. Winter solstice this Saturday Astronomical winter, unlike meteorological winter, begins at different dates and times each year depending on the position of the Sun in relation to Earth. Once the Sun's rays are directly over the Tropic of Capricorn that marks the winter solstice and the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter solstice In Austin on the first day of winter we only get 10 hours and 11 minutes of daylight. Compare that to our longest day on the beginning of summer with almost 4 additional hours of daylight. Hours of daylight in Austin This does mean that beginning Dec. 22 our days will gradually start getting longer. Things to do on the first day of winter The beginning of a new season serves as a good reminder to take care of some seasonal things around your home that can also keep you safe. Replace batteries in your smoke alarm Replace batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors Change your air filters throughout your home Check or change batteries in your NOAA Weather Radio Countdown to spring Winter lasts roughly 89 days in the Northern Hemisphere. Spring begins March 20, 2025 marking roughly equal day and equal night.