1. What is the NOAA Sun Angle Formula?

The NOAA sun angle formula calculates the solar altitude angle (α) based on latitude (φ), solar declination (δ), and hour angle (H). This is essential for solar energy applications, agriculture, and atmospheric studies.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the NOAA sun angle formula:

Where:

• \( α \) — Solar altitude angle (degrees above horizon)
• \( φ \) — Observer's latitude (degrees)
• \( δ \) — Solar declination (degrees)
• \( H \) — Hour angle (degrees from solar noon)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the geometric relationship between the observer's position on Earth and the sun's position in the sky.

3. Importance of Sun Angle Calculation

Details: Solar altitude angle is crucial for determining solar radiation intensity, designing solar panels, predicting sun exposure for crops, and understanding seasonal variations in sunlight.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter latitude (-90 to 90°), solar declination (-23.5 to 23.5°), and hour angle (-180 to 180°). All values must be valid numbers within their respective ranges.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: 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 ±23.5° throughout the year.

Q2: How is hour angle calculated?
A: Hour angle is 15° times the number of hours from solar noon (positive before noon, negative after noon).

Q3: What is a typical solar altitude at noon?
A: At equinoxes, solar altitude at noon equals 90° minus latitude. At solstices, add or subtract 23.5°.

Q4: Why does sun angle matter for solar panels?
A: Solar panel efficiency depends on the angle of incidence of sunlight, which is directly related to solar altitude.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The formula provides theoretical values; actual sun position may vary slightly due to atmospheric refraction and other factors.