1. What is the Sun Angle Equation?

The Sun Angle Equation calculates the altitude of the sun (α) based on latitude (φ), solar declination (δ), and hour angle (H). This is particularly useful for solar energy applications, architecture, and agriculture in Australia.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Sun Angle Equation:

Where:

• \( α \) — Sun altitude angle (degrees)
• \( φ \) — Latitude of the location (degrees)
• \( δ \) — Solar declination (degrees)
• \( H \) — Hour angle (degrees)

Explanation: The equation calculates the sun's position in the sky based on geographic location and time of day/year.

3. Importance of Sun Angle Calculation

Details: Accurate sun angle calculation is crucial for solar panel placement, building design, agricultural planning, and understanding seasonal variations in sunlight.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter latitude in degrees (-90 to 90), solar declination in degrees (-23.45 to 23.45), and hour angle in degrees (0 to 360). All values must be valid numbers.

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 approximately ±23.45° throughout the year.

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

Q3: What are typical sun angles for Australia?
A: Australia's sun angles range from about 10° to 80° depending on location, season, and time of day.

Q4: Why is this important for solar panels?
A: Solar panels perform best when perpendicular to the sun's rays, so knowing the sun angle helps optimize their tilt.

Q5: How does latitude affect sun angle?
A: Higher latitudes (further from equator) have lower maximum sun angles, especially in winter months.