Determining the solar angle for a specific location and date is crucial for various applications, from solar panel installation planning to understanding daylight hours and shadow patterns. This guide details how to find the solar angle for Flagstaff, Arizona on June 20th, 2025, and provides context for understanding this vital data.
Understanding Solar Angles
The solar angle refers to the position of the sun in the sky relative to a specific location on Earth. It's comprised of two primary components:
- Altitude Angle: This is the angle of the sun above the horizon. A 90-degree altitude angle means the sun is directly overhead.
- Azimuth Angle: This is the horizontal angle of the sun, measured clockwise from north. A 0-degree azimuth means the sun is due north, 90 degrees is due east, 180 degrees is due south, and 270 degrees is due west.
These angles change constantly due to the Earth's rotation and revolution around the sun. They are influenced by:
- Time of day: The sun's altitude and azimuth change throughout the day.
- Date: The sun's path varies throughout the year due to the Earth's tilt on its axis.
- Latitude and Longitude: A location's geographic coordinates significantly impact the solar angles.
Calculating the Solar Angle for Flagstaff, AZ on June 20th, 2025
Precise calculation of solar angles requires specialized software or online calculators. Numerous free resources are available online that provide this information. Simply search for "solar angle calculator" and input the following data:
- Date: June 20th, 2025
- Time: Specify the time you're interested in (e.g., solar noon, sunrise, sunset).
- Location: Flagstaff, Arizona (you'll need to input the latitude and longitude coordinates).
Flagstaff's approximate coordinates are 35.19° North latitude and 111.65° West longitude. Remember that the results will vary slightly depending on the specific software or calculator used.
Factors Influencing Accuracy
Several factors can affect the accuracy of calculated solar angles:
- Atmospheric Refraction: The Earth's atmosphere bends sunlight, causing the sun to appear slightly higher above the horizon than it actually is. Calculators often incorporate corrections for this.
- Terrain: Obstructions like mountains or buildings can significantly impact the amount of sunlight received at a specific location.
- Time Zone: Ensure you use the correct time zone for Flagstaff, Arizona (Mountain Standard Time or Mountain Daylight Time, depending on the date).
Practical Applications of Solar Angle Data
Knowing the solar angle for Flagstaff on June 20th, 2025, or any other date, is beneficial for various purposes:
- Solar Panel Design and Installation: Optimizing the tilt and orientation of solar panels to maximize energy capture.
- Architectural Design: Planning building designs to minimize shading and maximize natural sunlight.
- Agriculture: Understanding sunlight exposure for optimal crop growth.
- Photography: Determining the best time of day for capturing specific lighting effects.
- Astronomy: Calculating the sun's position for astronomical observations.
Conclusion
Precise determination of solar angles requires using specialized tools and considering several influencing factors. By utilizing online solar angle calculators and understanding the underlying principles, you can obtain the necessary data for numerous applications in Flagstaff, Arizona, or any other location on June 20th, 2025, or any other date. This information empowers informed decision-making in various fields, from renewable energy to architectural design. Remember to always double-check your data and consider local environmental factors for the most accurate results.
