Solar Position Calculator
Calculate the Sun's position (elevation and azimuth angles) for any location and time. Essential for solar observations, photography planning, and solar energy applications.
Location
Date & Time
Understanding Solar Position
Solar Coordinates
- Elevation (Altitude): Angle above the horizon (0° = horizon, 90° = zenith)
- Azimuth: Compass bearing from north (0° = north, 90° = east, 180° = south, 270° = west)
- Zenith Angle: Angle from directly overhead (90° - elevation)
Solar Calculations
Solar position depends on:
- Earth's orbital position (day of year)
- Earth's rotation (time of day)
- Observer's geographic location
- Atmospheric refraction effects
Key Solar Angles
| Angle | Description | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Elevation | Height above horizon | -90° to +90° | Negative = below horizon |
| Solar Azimuth | Compass direction | 0° to 360° | 0° = true north |
| Hour Angle | Sun's position vs. solar noon | -180° to +180° | 0° = solar noon |
| Declination | Sun's celestial latitude | -23.45° to +23.45° | Varies with season |
Solar Declination Throughout Year
- March 20 (Vernal Equinox): δ ≈ 0°
- June 21 (Summer Solstice): δ ≈ +23.45°
- September 22 (Autumnal Equinox): δ ≈ 0°
- December 21 (Winter Solstice): δ ≈ -23.45°
Solar Time vs. Clock Time
Solar time differs from clock time due to:
- Equation of Time: Earth's elliptical orbit and axial tilt
- Longitude Correction: Time zones vs. local solar time
- Daylight Saving Time: Artificial time adjustment
Applications
- Solar Energy: Panel orientation and shading analysis
- Architecture: Building orientation and window design
- Photography: Golden hour and blue hour timing
- Astronomy: Solar observation safety and planning
- Agriculture: Crop sun exposure optimization
Important Safety Note
⚠️ WARNING: Never look directly at the Sun without proper solar filters. This can cause permanent eye damage or blindness. Use appropriate solar observation equipment or projection methods.
Photography Planning
- Golden Hour: Sun elevation 6° below to 6° above horizon
- Blue Hour: Sun elevation 6° to 12° below horizon
- Civil Twilight: Sun elevation 0° to 6° below horizon
- Nautical Twilight: Sun elevation 6° to 12° below horizon
- Astronomical Twilight: Sun elevation 12° to 18° below horizon