Sun Position Calculator

Sun Position Calculator is an online calculator can calculates sun position (Solar Elevation Angle and Solar Azimuth Angle, etc.) for a given date and latitude/longitude.

Introduction to Solar Elevation Angle and Solar Azimuth Angle (Sun Altitude & Sun Azimuth)

Solar Elevation Angle

Definition:

The Solar Elevation Angle is the angle between the direction of the geometric center of the Sun's apparent disk and the local horizontal plane. It quantifies how high the Sun appears in the sky from an observer's point of view. When the Sun is on the horizon, the elevation angle is 0 degrees; when it is directly overhead (at the zenith), the angle reaches its maximum of 90 degrees.

Influencing Factors:

• Latitude: The solar elevation angle varies with geographic location. Places closer to the equator experience higher angles throughout the day.

• Seasons: Due to Earth's axial tilt, the angle changes over the course of a year, being highest during summer and lowest in winter for any given latitude.

• Time of Day: As the Earth rotates, the Sun moves across the sky, causing the elevation angle to increase from sunrise until noon and then decrease until sunset.

Applications:

• Solar Energy Systems: Optimizing the tilt angle of solar panels to maximize energy capture.

• Building Design: Determining window placements and shading structures to manage natural light and heat gain.

• Agriculture: Influencing planting schedules based on sunlight availability and intensity.

Solar Azimuth Angle

Definition:

The Solar Azimuth Angle is the horizontal direction of the Sun measured clockwise from true north. It indicates where the Sun is located in the sky relative to the observer’s position. The azimuth angle ranges from 0 degrees (true north) through 90 degrees (east), 180 degrees (south), 270 degrees (west), and back to 360 degrees (north again).

Influencing Factors:

• Latitude: Similar to the elevation angle, the azimuth also depends on the observer's geographic location.

• Seasons: Seasonal changes affect the path of the Sun across the sky, altering its rising and setting points.

• Time of Day: Throughout the day, the Sun's position changes, affecting the azimuth angle continuously.

Applications:

• Navigation and Positioning: Historically used by sailors and explorers to determine directions.

• Photography and Filmmaking: Choosing optimal times for shooting to achieve desired lighting effects.

• Architectural Planning: Influencing building orientation to optimize daylight exposure and passive heating/cooling strategies.

Understanding the Solar Elevation Angle and Solar Azimuth Angle is crucial for many applications ranging from renewable energy to architecture and beyond. Accurate knowledge of these angles helps in optimizing activities such as positioning solar collectors, designing energy-efficient buildings, and planning agricultural practices.