The Science Behind Solar Position Calculating this angle requires understanding the sun’s position in the celestial sphere, which is determined by the observer’s latitude and longitude, the current date, and the precise time of day. The declination of the sun, which is its angular distance north or south of the celestial equator, changes throughout the year due to the Earth’s axial tilt.
Solar Zenith Angle Throughout the Day: Time of Day Variations
At low angles, the sunlight passes through more atmosphere, which can enhance red and orange hues during sunrise and sunset while simultaneously reducing the overall energy available for surface heating. Conversely, a large angle indicates the sun is low, forcing sunlight to traverse a much thicker layer of air.
The solar zenith angle is the angle between the zenith, the point directly overhead, and the center of the sun's disc. Accurate mapping of this angle across the globe is essential for understanding radiative budgets, evaporation rates, and the overall energy balance of the Earth's climate system.
Solar Zenith Angle Changes Throughout the Day
This phenomenon, known as atmospheric attenuation, is why midday sun feels significantly hotter and more intense than morning or afternoon sun. Locations near the equator experience smaller zenith angles more frequently, leading to consistently high solar intensity.
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