Solar elevation + azimuth calculator
Where is the sun in the sky right now (or any date) at your location? Useful for shading studies, panel placement, and figuring out winter vs summer sun arcs.
Result
- Sun elevation
- Sun azimuth
- Sunrise
- Solar noon
- Sunset
Reading the output. Elevation is sun height above the horizon (0° = horizon, 90° = directly overhead). Azimuth is compass direction (0° = N, 90° = E, 180° = S, 270° = W). The sun is at azimuth 180° at solar noon if you're in the northern hemisphere.
Practical uses. Run it for Dec 21 noon to find your steepest winter shading; if a tree casts shade across your panel location at that time, plan to remove or relocate. Run it for Jun 21 noon to confirm peak summer sun angle for sizing roof overhangs for cooling.
Recommended gear
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AmazonSolar Pathfinder Thermal Assistant softwareCompanion software to the classic Solar Pathfinder dome — analyze year-round shading from a single site photo.
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AmazonCammenga US Military tritium lensatic compassSelf-luminous tritium for low-light orientation. Lifetime tool for siting panels and sighting solstices.
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AmazonAOFAR military lensatic compass (budget)Sub-$15 sighting compass with pouch + lanyard. Good enough for laying out an azimuth quickly.
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