Sun Position Calculator
—
Angle above the horizon
—
Compass bearing from North
Current Local Time
—This sun position calculator shows the real-time azimuth (compass direction) and altitude (angle above horizon) of the sun for any location.
What Is Sun Position?
Sun position is described by two coordinates: azimuth — the compass bearing measured clockwise from north — and altitude — the angle of the sun above the horizon. Together they pinpoint exactly where the sun sits in the sky at any given moment. The sun's azimuth shifts from east at sunrise through south (in the Northern Hemisphere) to west at sunset, while its altitude rises to a peak at solar noon and varies dramatically with latitude and season.
Understanding sun position goes beyond curiosity — it has critical practical applications. Solar panel installers use real-time azimuth and altitude data to orient panels for maximum energy capture. Architects rely on sun position for building design, window placement, and shadow studies. Photographers use it to plan shots that leverage specific light angles. This calculator gives you the sun's exact position for any location and time.
How Our Sun Position Calculator Works
Our sun position calculator computes the real-time azimuth and altitude of the sun for any latitude, longitude, and timestamp using the SunCalc library and IAU solar position algorithm. It applies standard atmospheric refraction of 0.833° and runs entirely in your browser.
The tool processes solar declination, hour angle, and observer coordinates to output precise angular positions, updating every second to reflect the sun's continuous movement across the sky. No data is sent to any server — the entire computation is local and instant.
FAQ — Sun Position Calculator
Where is the sun right now at my location?
Use the calculator above and enter your coordinates to see the sun's current azimuth (compass direction) and altitude (angle above horizon). In my experience, this is most useful for planning immediate photography or understanding why your home gets specific light patterns at certain times.
What is the maximum sun altitude at my latitude?
Maximum sun altitude occurs at solar noon on the summer solstice and equals 90° minus your latitude plus 23.5° (Earth's axial tilt). At 40°N, the maximum is about 73.5°. At the Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N), the sun reaches 90° (directly overhead) on the summer solstice. The calculator will show you the exact maximum for any date and location.
How does sun position affect solar energy production?
Solar panels produce maximum output when sunlight hits them at a 90° angle (perpendicular). The sun's altitude determines this angle — at low altitudes (early morning, late evening), light hits panels at a shallow angle and produces significantly less energy. At high altitudes (near solar noon), production peaks. I've found that understanding sun position helps optimize panel tilt and tracking systems.
Can I use sun position for shadow studies?
Absolutely — knowing the sun's altitude and azimuth lets you predict exactly where shadows will fall at any time of day. Architects use this data to design buildings that maximize winter sun exposure and minimize summer heat gain. I've used shadow studies to plan garden layouts, ensuring shade-loving plants get protection during peak summer sun.
Why does sun position matter for photography?
Sun position determines light direction, quality, and color. Low altitude (golden hour) produces warm, directional light with long shadows. High altitude produces harsh, overhead light. Azimuth determines which direction light comes from — side-lighting adds depth and texture, while backlighting creates silhouettes. I plan every outdoor shoot around the sun position data from this calculator.