Enter the latitude of the observer and the declination of the sun into the calculator to determine the sun altitude. This calculator can also evaluate any of the variables given the others are known.
Sun Altitude Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the sun altitude.
A = 90 - (φ - δ)
Variables:
- A is the altitude of the sun (degrees)
- φ is the latitude of the observer (degrees)
- δ is the declination of the sun (degrees)
To calculate the sun altitude, subtract the declination of the sun from the latitude of the observer. Then subtract this result from 90. The result is the altitude of the sun.
What is a Sun Altitude?
Sun altitude is a measurement used in astronomy to describe the angle or degree at which the sun is positioned above the horizon during the day. It is calculated from 0 degrees at sunrise and sunset, reaching its maximum at local noon. The exact altitude of the sun varies depending on the time of year and the geographical location of the observer. This measurement is important for various fields such as meteorology, navigation, and solar energy production.
How to Calculate Sun Altitude?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Sun Altitude using the formula: A = 90 – (φ – δ).
- First, determine the latitude of the observer (φ) in degrees.
- Next, determine the declination of the sun (δ) in degrees.
- Next, substitute the values of φ and δ into the formula A = 90 – (φ – δ).
- Finally, calculate the Sun Altitude (A) using the formula.
- After inserting the values and calculating the result, check your answer with a sun altitude calculator.
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Latitude of the observer (φ) = 40 degrees
Declination of the sun (δ) = 23 degrees
