Earth's axial tilt, illustration. The angular tilt of Earth's rotational axis varies from 22.1 degrees to 24.5 degrees and back again on a 41,000-year cycle. Currently, this angle is approximately 23.5 degrees and is decreasing. The axial tilt results in the Earth's seasons. Winter occurs in the Northern hemisphere when the north pole is directed away from the Sun. Variations in Earth's axial tilt can influence the seasons and may be a factor in long-term climate change.