Yes, Jerry, I realize that in some years the solstice won't be Dec. 21. I was using that as an example for this year (2005.)

I'm somewhat prepared for answers of the form "It depends on this, and it depends on that ...", but I note that many sources state quite confidently that the winter solstice (whichever date it happens to fall on in a given year) is the shortest day of the year. Why the ambiguities as to which is the longest night?

Don