Sunrise Sunset Calculator Latitude Longitude

Sunrise Equation:

\[ Sunrise = \frac{\arccos(-\tan(lat) \cdot \tan(decl))}{15} + Solar\ Time \]

Latitude:

Longitude:

Date:

Timezone:

Sunrise Time:

Sunset Time:

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1. What is the Sunrise Sunset Calculator?

The Sunrise Sunset Calculator uses spherical trigonometry to calculate the exact times of sunrise and sunset for any given location and date. It accounts for latitude, longitude, and solar declination to provide accurate astronomical calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the sunrise equation:

\[ Sunrise = \frac{\arccos(-\tan(lat) \cdot \tan(decl))}{15} + Solar\ Time \]

Where:

\( lat \) — Latitude in degrees
\( decl \) — Solar declination in degrees
\( Solar\ Time \) — Local solar time adjustment
15 — Conversion factor from degrees to hours (360°/24h = 15°/h)

Explanation: The equation calculates the hour angle when the sun's center is at the horizon, then converts this to local time considering longitude and timezone.

3. Importance of Sunrise/Sunset Calculation

Details: Accurate sunrise and sunset times are essential for agriculture, photography, religious observances, outdoor activities, and scientific research. They help in planning daily activities and understanding seasonal changes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter latitude (-90° to 90°), longitude (-180° to 180°), select a date, and choose your timezone. The calculator will provide sunrise and sunset times in local time.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why do sunrise and sunset times vary throughout the year?
A: Due to the Earth's axial tilt (23.5°) and elliptical orbit, the sun's path changes daily, causing variations in sunrise and sunset times.

Q2: How accurate is this calculator?
A: This provides theoretical calculations. Actual times may vary due to atmospheric refraction, elevation, and local topography.

Q3: 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 between ±23.45° throughout the year.

Q4: Why does latitude affect sunrise/sunset times?
A: Higher latitudes experience greater seasonal variation in day length due to the angle of the Earth's axis relative to the sun.

Q5: Can I calculate for any date in the past or future?
A: Yes, the calculator works for any date, though very distant dates may have slight inaccuracies due to long-term astronomical changes.