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Sun Position Calculator Map

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Understanding the sun's position is crucial for solar energy systems, astronomy, and outdoor activities. This calculator provides accurate sun position data and visualizes it on an interactive map.

What is Sun Position?

The sun's position in the sky changes throughout the day and year due to Earth's rotation and revolution. Key parameters include:

  • Azimuth: The angle of the sun measured clockwise from true north.
  • Altitude: The angle of the sun above the horizon.
  • Solar Time: The time corrected for the difference between solar noon and clock noon.

These parameters are essential for solar panel orientation, shadow calculations, and astronomical observations.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter your location coordinates (latitude and longitude).
  2. Select the date and time for your calculation.
  3. Click "Calculate" to see the sun's position.
  4. View the results and the interactive map visualization.

For best results, use precise coordinates and local time. The calculator uses standard astronomical algorithms for accuracy.

Formula Used

The calculator uses the following formulas based on standard astronomical algorithms:

  1. Calculate the day of the year (n).
  2. Compute the solar declination (δ) using:
    δ = -23.45° × cos(360° × (n + 10) / 365)
  3. Determine the hour angle (ω) based on local time.
  4. Calculate the solar zenith angle (θ) using:
    θ = arccos[sin(φ) × sin(δ) + cos(φ) × cos(δ) × cos(ω)]
  5. Compute the solar azimuth angle (α) using:
    α = arctan2[sin(ω), cos(ω) × sin(φ) - tan(δ) × cos(φ)]

Example Calculation

Let's calculate the sun's position for New York City (40.7128° N, 74.0060° W) on June 21 at 12:00 PM local time:

  1. Day of year (n) = 172 (June 21)
  2. Solar declination (δ) ≈ 23.45°
  3. Hour angle (ω) = 0° (noon)
  4. Solar zenith angle (θ) ≈ 36.87°
  5. Solar azimuth angle (α) ≈ 180° (south)

This means the sun is directly overhead at solar noon on the summer solstice in New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is this sun position calculator?

This calculator uses standard astronomical algorithms with an accuracy of about ±1° for most locations. For precise applications, consult professional solar tracking systems.

Can I use this for solar panel installation?

Yes, the azimuth and altitude angles provided can help determine optimal solar panel orientation for maximum energy production.

Does this calculator account for atmospheric refraction?

The basic version does not include atmospheric refraction effects. For professional applications, more advanced algorithms should be used.

How often should I recalculate the sun's position?

For most applications, recalculating every 15 minutes during daylight hours is sufficient. For precise tracking, more frequent updates may be needed.