Time And Date Sun Calculator

Sun Altitude Formula:

\[ \text{Altitude} = \arcsin(\sin(\delta) \sin(\phi) + \cos(\delta) \cos(\phi) \cos(HA)) \]

Sun Altitude:

Definition: This calculator determines the sun's altitude angle based on declination, latitude, and hour angle.

Purpose: It helps astronomers, architects, and solar energy professionals understand the sun's position at specific times and locations.

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \text{Altitude} = \arcsin(\sin(\delta) \sin(\phi) + \cos(\delta) \cos(\phi) \cos(HA)) \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula combines astronomical coordinates to calculate how high the sun appears in the sky.

Details: Knowing the sun's altitude helps in solar panel positioning, building design, photography planning, and astronomical observations.

Tips: Enter the sun's declination, your latitude, and the hour angle. All values must be in degrees.

Q1: What is solar declination?
A: Declination is the sun's position north or south of the celestial equator, ranging from +23.5° to -23.5°.

Q2: How do I find my latitude?
A: Use GPS coordinates or online maps. Positive for north, negative for south.

Q3: What is hour angle?
A: The angular distance of the sun east or west of the local meridian (0° at solar noon).

Q4: What does altitude = 0° mean?
A: The sun is exactly on the horizon (sunrise or sunset).

Q5: What's the maximum possible altitude?
A: For any location, maximum altitude occurs at solar noon and equals (90° - latitude + declination).