VIEW LARGER February 29, 2024 Lisa Suender
The month of February is extended by one day this year. That means the 29th is Leap Day. It's when the calendar compensates for the Earth's rotation and its trip around the Sun being out of sync.
University of Arizona planetary scientist Renu Malhotra notes cultures would face extreme challenges if they ignored Leap Day.
"If we didn't do this every four years, in less than 400 years we'd be having the seasons all wrong," she said.
The term "Leap Year" became popular because when the 29th of February disappears, it allows for fewer birthdays, anniversaries, and other events held on that specific date each year.
By submitting your comments, you hereby give AZPM the right to post your comments and potentially use them in any other form of media operated by this institution.