Every year there is only two days without shadow and this Wednesday, April 29, is the first of 2026as reported by the National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh).
However, it is not that the shadows disappear throughout the day, but that he astronomical phenomenon will occur at a specific time: at 11:59 a.m.
When there is one minute left until noon, all objects in a vertical position will not cast a shadow. This happens due to the position of the Sun, which will reach its highest point.
“The sun varies its position in the sky throughout the year, and for two days a year: April 29 and August 13 at noon, the sun is positioned exactly at the highest point in the sky. Due to the angle, vertical objects do not produce shadows,” explained Luis Icú, from the oceanography section of Insivumeh.
Therefore, all those elements in a vertical position, such as posts, trees, columns or walls, as well as those that are placed in that way to observe the phenomenon, will not produce shadow.
However, although it is an unmissable event, described as “one of the most interesting astronomical days of the year”, it is necessary avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and protect yourself from ultraviolet radiation.
“It is important stay in shady places, use umbrellas and always use sunscreen”, recommended the expert.
The day without shadow is also known as “zenithal passage of the Sun”, since the Sun is located at the zenith, the highest point in the sky. The next passage of the zenith Sun in 2026 will be on Thursday, August 13.
Don’t miss this April 29th, the day without shadow, you will be able to observe this phenomenon at noon. Find out the details here.#SomosINSIVUMEH #PassionForScience #AlPuebloDignoSeLeResponde #CIV #ClimaGT pic.twitter.com/ktdsVKW7c5
— INSIVUMEH (@insivumehgt) April 28, 2026