GEOGRAPHY & CARTOGRAPHY CALCULATOR
Timesolar Azimuth
A precise tool.
What is the Timesolar Azimuth & How does it work?
The solar azimuth angle describes the compass direction of the Sun as seen from a specific location on Earth. It is measured clockwise from true north, ranging from 0° (north) through 90° (east), 180° (south), and 270° (west). Understanding azimuth is essential for tasks such as solar panel orientation, navigation, and daylight analysis. To calculate the azimuth, we need three key pieces of information: the observer’s latitude (phi), the solar declination (delta) which varies throughout the year, and the solar hour angle (h) that depends on the local solar time. The declination can be approximated by the equation delta = 23.45° sinleft(frac{360°}{365} (284 + N)right), where N is the day of the year. Combining these variables, the solar azimuth (A) can be expressed with the following trigonometric relationship: This formula yields the azimuth measured clockwise from north, allowing precise positioning of solar‑related systems.
A = arctan2left(frac{sin h}{cos h sinphi – tandelta cosphi}right)
A = solar azimuth angle (°)
phi = observer latitude (°)
delta = solar declination (°)
h = hour angle (°)
phi = observer latitude (°)
delta = solar declination (°)
h = hour angle (°)
Parameters
Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is solar azimuth?
Solar azimuth is the compass direction of the Sun, measured clockwise from true north.
How do I calculate solar azimuth?
You need the observer's latitude, solar declination, and local solar time to calculate it using specific formulas.
Why is solar azimuth important?
It helps in orienting solar panels for maximum efficiency and in analyzing daylight patterns for various applications.
What is the range of solar azimuth values?
Solar azimuth ranges from 0° (north) through 90° (east), 180° (south), and 270° (west).
How does solar declination affect azimuth?
Solar declination, which varies with the time of year, influences the angle at which sunlight hits a location, affecting the azimuth calculation.
Can I use this calculator for any location?
Yes, as long as you know the latitude and local solar time for your specific location.
What is the difference between true north and magnetic north in azimuth calculations?
True north refers to geographic north, while magnetic north is where a compass points. Azimuths are typically calculated using true north for accuracy.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.