What is the term for the point when Earth is farthest from the sun?

The point when Earth is farthest from the sun is referred to as aphelion. This term comes from the Greek word "aphelion," which means "away from the sun." During aphelion, Earth’s distance from the sun is at its maximum for the year, occurring around early July. Understanding this concept is foundational to recognizing how Earth’s elliptical orbit affects solar energy received and climate.

Perihelion, in contrast, is the point when Earth is closest to the sun, which occurs around early January. Apsis generally refers to either of the two points in an orbit—aphelion and perihelion—but does not specifically indicate the farthest point from the sun. Equinox refers to the times of the year when day and night are of approximately equal length, which is unrelated to the distance between Earth and the sun.