COLOMBO ; Residents of Colombo are set to witness a rare celestial phenomenon on Monday, April 7, 2025, at exactly 12:12 p.m., when shadows will momentarily disappear.
This optical illusion, known as “Zero Shadow Day” or “Lāhainā Noon,” occurs when the sun is directly overhead, making vertical objects cast no shadow.
“This is actually an optical illusion,” explained astronomer Anura C. Perera. “At this time of year, the sun is directly overhead, meaning Sri Lanka is receiving maximum solar energy. That means the sun will be directly overhead the country in the first two weeks of April. This will last from April 5th to 15th.”
Perera elaborated that on April 7, precisely at 12:12 p.m., those standing outside in Colombo will experience the brief disappearance of their shadows. “If someone stands outside at exactly 12:12 p.m. on that day, they will not be able to see their own shadow for a brief moment. One would not be able to see their own shadow, but others might still perceive it,” he said.
This phenomenon is part of a 10-day solar event from April 5 to April 15, during which the sun will pass directly overhead different locations in Sri Lanka. The event begins in Point Pedro on April 4 and progresses as follows:
Elamaldeniya – April 5
Kalutara – April 6
Colombo and Kelaniya – April 7
Nainamadama and Mahiyanganaya – April 8
Zero Shadow Day is a biannual event that occurs in locations between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn when the sun is directly overhead. Scientists and astronomy enthusiasts in Colombo are gearing up to witness and document the event, as it serves as a striking reminder of the Earth’s axial tilt and the sun’s movement relative to different latitudes.Daily Mirror
