Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith)
Technical Details & Mathematical Formulation
The latitude of the subsolar point equals the Sun declination (oscillating between +23.44 at the June solstice and -23.44 at the December solstice). The longitude is determined by the Greenwich Hour Angle derived from Universal Coordinated Time (UTC).
\phi_{\odot} = \delta_{\odot},\quad \lambda_{\odot} = -15^\circ \times (\text{UTC Hour} + \text{Min}/60 - 12) - \frac{\text{EqT}}{4}Test real-world coordinates and calculate live results in browser.
Related Geodetic Concepts
People Also Ask About Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith)
Answers to key questions, technical definitions, and practical geodetic applications.
QWhat does the term "Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith)" mean?
The subsolar point is the exact geographic coordinate on Earth surface where the Sun is directly overhead at the zenith (90 altitude angle) at any given moment.
QWhat is the mathematical or technical basis of Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith)?
The latitude of the subsolar point equals the Sun declination (oscillating between +23.44 at the June solstice and -23.44 at the December solstice). The longitude is determined by the Greenwich Hour Angle derived from Universal Coordinated Time (UTC).
QHow do professionals use Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith) in GIS and surveying?
Cartographers, geospatial software engineers, and navigators utilize Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith) to guarantee mathematical precision and consistent spatial reference frames across global datasets.
QWhich category of geodesy does Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith) belong to?
This concept is cataloged under the "Astronomy & Solar" domain in the GeoMap Suite cartographic knowledge index.
QCan I test or calculate Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith) on GeoMap Suite?
Yes. You can test live coordinates and see practical examples using our companion Sun Position Calculator tool.
QWhat are key concepts related to Subsolar Point (Sun Zenith)?
Directly related terms include Solar Terminator, Solar Zenith Angle.