The equinoctial circles are imaginary lines that encircle the earth and are perpendicular to its axis of rotation. These circles are important in determining the changing seasons and the length of daylight throughout the year. There are various synonyms for the term equinoctial circles, including the celestial equator, equatorial circle, or simply, the equator. While equinox refers specifically to the two points in the year when the sun is directly above the equator, the equinoctial circles represent the entirety of the earth's circumference at which the sun is on the horizon. These circles are an essential concept in astronomy and geography and have significance in many cultures worldwide.