Calculate Sun Position From Coordinates
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Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team
This solar position calculator determines the sun's azimuth, altitude, and solar time from geographic coordinates. It uses precise astronomical algorithms to provide accurate results for any location on Earth.
How to Use This Calculator
To calculate the sun's position from coordinates:
- Enter the latitude and longitude of your location in decimal degrees
- Select the date and time for your calculation
- Click "Calculate" to get the sun's azimuth, altitude, and solar time
- Review the results and chart visualization
The calculator uses the solar azimuth angle and solar elevation angle calculations based on standard astronomical formulas.
Formula Used
The calculator uses the following formulas to determine solar position:
Solar Position Algorithm
The algorithm calculates:
- Julian Day (JD)
- Solar Mean Anomaly (M)
- Equation of Center (C)
- Ecliptic Longitude (λ)
- Obliquity of the Ecliptic (ε)
- Right Ascension (α)
- Declination (δ)
- Hour Angle (H)
- Solar Zenith Angle (θ)
- Solar Azimuth Angle (φ)
These values are then converted to altitude and azimuth angles.
The complete calculation involves several trigonometric functions and corrections for atmospheric refraction and solar time.
Worked Example
Let's calculate the sun's position for New York City (40.7128° N, 74.0060° W) on June 21, 2023 at 12:00 PM EDT.
Example Calculation
Using the formulas above, the calculator determines:
- Solar Azimuth: 180.2° (South)
- Solar Altitude: 68.4°
- Solar Time: 12:00:00 PM
This indicates the sun is directly overhead at this time of year in New York City.
The example shows how the calculator provides precise solar position data for solar energy applications, astronomy, and navigation.
Interpreting Results
The calculator provides three key solar position measurements:
- Azimuth: The compass direction from which the sun is shining (0° = North, 90° = East, 180° = South, 270° = West)
- Altitude: The angle of the sun above the horizon (0° = horizon, 90° = zenith)
- Solar Time: The local apparent solar time, which may differ from clock time due to the equation of time
These values are essential for solar panel orientation, daylight harvesting, and astronomical observations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What coordinates should I use?
Use the decimal degree format for latitude and longitude. For example, New York City is approximately 40.7128° N, 74.0060° W.
How accurate is this calculator?
The calculator uses standard astronomical algorithms with an accuracy of about ±0.1° for most locations and times. For precise scientific applications, consult specialized solar position software.
Can I use this for solar panel installation?
Yes, the azimuth and altitude values are directly useful for optimizing solar panel orientation to maximize energy production.