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The equator is one of the five main Circles Of Latitude based on the relationship of the Earth's Rotation and plane of Orbit around the sun. Additionally, the equator is the only line of latitude which is also a Great Circle . The Sun , in its Season al movement through the sky, passes directly over the equator twice each Year on the Vernal and Autumnal Equinox es, which occur in March and September respectively. At the equator, the rays of the sun are Perpendicular to the surface of the earth on these dates. Places near the equator experience the quickest rates of Sunrise and Sunset in the world, taking minutes. Such places also have a relatively constant amount of day/night time on every day throughout the year compared with more northerly or southerly places. Equatorial countries The equator traverses the land and/or water of 13 Countries in total:
Contrary to its name, no part of Equatorial Guinea lies on the equator. "Crossing the Line" Seafaring tradition maintains that all sailors who cross the equator during a nautical voyage must undergo rites of passage and elaborate rituals initiating them into The Solemn Mysteries of the Ancient Order of the Deep. These rituals date back to the Middle Ages, though the current ceremonies are most likely derived from Viking traditions. Those who have never "crossed the line" are derisively referred to as "pollywogs" or simply "slimy wogs". Upon entering the domain of His Royal Majesty, Neptunus Rex, alfish headl wogs are subject to various initiation rituals performed by those members of the crew who have made the journey before. Upon completion of the initiation ceremony, the wogs are then known as "trusty Shellbacks". If the crossing of the equator is done at the 180th Meridian , the title of "Golden Shellback" is conferred, recognizing the simultaneous entry into the realm of the Golden Dragon. If the crossing occurs at the Greenwich or Prime Meridian , the sailor is considered to be an "Emerald Shellback". See also |