Monday, January 14, 2008

Crossing the Equator

As the center point of the earth, the equator is also the center of the tropics, the area lying between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. The sun’s heat near the equator easily evaporates water from the oceans, so the hot tropical air is also moist; this is why there are rain forests at the equator. Also, at the equator, the sun’s rays are unaffected by the tilt of the earth, so the area is always exposed to the sun and receives direct solar rays year-round, regardless of season. The heat is most intense at sea level, but as you move into the mountains, it can also get very cold. In fact, you might find snow at the equator! Overseeing the equator is King Neptune (known in Greek mythology as Poseidon) and in time-honored seafaring fashion we will host a ceremony to ensure a safe passage. The festivities are marked by the appearance of King Poseidon, Chief of the Water Deities. Poseidon created the horse and upon these powerful creatures, with their brazen hoofs and golden manes, drew his chariot over the sea, which became smooth before him. This could explain the tradition of seafaring merrymaking, honoring Poseidon in return for safe passage and smooth waters. Naturally, there must be a sacrifice and the ship’s staff has searched from bow to stern to find the perfect offering.

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