METEOROLOGY – OLAR RADIATION CALCULATOR
Solar Irradiance Clearsky
A precise tool.
What is the Solar Irradiance Clearsky & How does it work?
Solar irradiance is the power per unit area received from the sun in the form of electromagnetic radiation. It varies with latitude, time of day, and season due to the Earth’s axial tilt and its revolution around the Sun.The clear-sky solar irradiance can be calculated using the formula:
I_0 = 1367 text{ W/m}^2
I_0 = Solar constant at Earth’s distance from the Sun
I(theta) = I_0 cdot (1 + 0.034221 cos(2pi t/365)) cdot (1 – 0.14986 cos(2pi (t-81)/365)) cdot cos(theta)
I(theta) = Solar irradiance at angle theta; t = Julian day of the year; theta = solar zenith angle
Parameters
Result
β
Frequently Asked Questions
What is solar irradiance?
Solar irradiance is the power per unit area received from the sun in the form of electromagnetic radiation.
How does the Earth’s axial tilt affect solar irradiance?
The Earth’s axial tilt causes variations in solar irradiance based on latitude, time of day, and season.
What is the solar constant at Earth’s distance from the Sun?
The solar constant at Earth’s distance from the Sun is 1367 W/mΒ².
How do I calculate clear-sky solar irradiance?
Use the formula I(ΞΈ) = Iβ Β· (1 + 0.034221 cos(2Οt/365)) Β· (1 – 0.14986 cos(2Ο(t-81)/365)) Β· cos(ΞΈ), where Iβ is the solar constant.
What factors influence clear-sky solar irradiance?
Clear-sky solar irradiance is influenced by latitude, time of day, season, and the Earth’s axial tilt.
Can this calculator be used for any location on Earth?
Yes, this calculator can be used for any location on Earth by adjusting the latitude, time of day, and season.
What is the purpose of the cosine term in the formula?
The cosine term accounts for the angle between the sun’s rays and the surface area being irradiated.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.