1. What Is Solar Altitude?

Solar Altitude, also known as Sun Elevation Angle, is the angle between the horizon and the center of the sun's disc. It determines how high the sun appears in the sky and affects sunlight intensity, shadow length, and solar energy reception.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the solar altitude equation:

Where:

• \( Latitude \) — Geographic latitude of the location (degrees)
• \( Declination \) — Solar declination angle (degrees)
• \( Hour Angle \) — Time from solar noon (degrees)

Explanation: This equation calculates the sun's position in the sky based on geographic location, time of year, and time of day.

3. Importance Of Solar Altitude Calculation

Details: Solar altitude calculation is essential for solar panel positioning, architectural design, photography, agriculture, and understanding seasonal sunlight variations.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter latitude in degrees (positive for north, negative for south), solar declination based on date, and hour angle based on time from solar noon. All values must be in degrees.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What Is Solar Declination?
A: Solar declination is the angle between the rays of the sun and the plane of the Earth's equator, varying throughout the year due to Earth's axial tilt.

Q2: How Is Hour Angle Calculated?
A: Hour angle is 15° multiplied by the number of hours from solar noon. Positive for afternoon, negative for morning.

Q3: What Are Typical Solar Altitude Values?
A: Ranges from 0° at sunrise/sunset to 90° at solar noon on the equator during equinoxes. Maximum values vary by latitude and season.

Q4: Why Is Solar Altitude Important For Solar Panels?
A: Optimal solar panel tilt angle is often set equal to the location's latitude to maximize annual energy production.

Q5: How Does Season Affect Solar Altitude?
A: Solar altitude is highest in summer and lowest in winter due to changes in solar declination throughout the year.