Solar Angle Flagstaff AZ June 20th 2025: This analysis delves into the specifics of the sun’s position and its impact on solar energy collection in Flagstaff, Arizona, on June 20th, 2025. We’ll examine the solar path, including sunrise and sunset times, and explore how the sun’s altitude and azimuth angles throughout the day influence the efficiency of solar panels.
The study will also consider shadowing effects and compare the solar angle on this date to that of the winter solstice (December 21st, 2025), highlighting the geographical factors at play.
Understanding these solar angles is crucial for optimizing solar energy systems. Factors like latitude, elevation, and even the presence of buildings significantly affect the amount of sunlight a solar panel receives. This detailed examination will provide valuable insights for anyone interested in maximizing solar energy production in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Solar Path on June 20th, 2025 in Flagstaff, AZ
On June 20th, 2025, Flagstaff, Arizona experiences a long day of sunlight due to its northern latitude and the summer solstice’s proximity. The sun follows a high arc across the sky, resulting in extended daylight hours and a relatively high solar altitude throughout much of the day. This impacts various aspects of life in Flagstaff, from the intensity of solar radiation to the shadows cast by buildings and landscapes.
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Solar Path Description and Sunrise/Sunset Times
The sun rises in the northeast and sets in the northwest on June 20th, 2025, in Flagstaff. The exact sunrise and sunset times will vary slightly depending on the specific location within Flagstaff and the elevation, but a reasonable estimate based on astronomical calculations places sunrise around 5:00 AM and sunset around 8:00 PM Mountain Standard Time (MST). The sun’s path across the sky is characterized by a steep angle, resulting in a relatively short period when the sun is at a low altitude.
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This high solar trajectory is typical for locations at this latitude during the summer solstice.
Solar Altitude and Azimuth Angles Throughout the Day
Solar altitude refers to the angle of the sun above the horizon, while solar azimuth is the compass direction (in degrees from North) from which the sun appears. Both angles change constantly throughout the day. At sunrise, the altitude is 0 degrees, and the azimuth is approximately 60 degrees (northeast). As the day progresses, the altitude increases, reaching its maximum (the solar noon) around 1:00 PM MST, at which point the azimuth is approximately 180 degrees (South).
After solar noon, the altitude decreases, and the azimuth continues to increase, eventually reaching approximately 290 degrees (northwest) at sunset. The rate of change in both altitude and azimuth is not constant; it varies throughout the day.
Hourly Solar Data for Flagstaff, AZ on June 20th, 2025
The following table provides estimates of the solar altitude and azimuth at hourly intervals from sunrise to sunset. These are approximate values and may vary slightly based on precise location and atmospheric conditions. The solar elevation is a synonym for solar altitude.
| Time (MST) | Altitude (degrees) | Azimuth (degrees) | Solar Elevation (degrees) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | 10 | 70 | 10 |
| 7:00 AM | 25 | 85 | 25 |
| 8:00 AM | 40 | 105 | 40 |
| 9:00 AM | 50 | 125 | 50 |
| 10:00 AM | 60 | 145 | 60 |
| 11:00 AM | 68 | 165 | 68 |
| 12:00 PM | 70 | 180 | 70 |
| 1:00 PM | 70 | 195 | 70 |
| 2:00 PM | 65 | 215 | 65 |
| 3:00 PM | 55 | 235 | 55 |
| 4:00 PM | 40 | 255 | 40 |
| 5:00 PM | 25 | 275 | 25 |
| 6:00 PM | 10 | 290 | 10 |
Impact of Solar Angle on Solar Energy Collection: Solar Angle Flagstaff Az June 20th 2025
The efficiency of solar panel energy collection in Flagstaff, Arizona, on June 20th, 2025, is significantly influenced by the solar angle. This angle, determined by the sun’s position relative to the horizon, directly impacts the amount of solar radiation striking the panels and thus the energy generated. Understanding this relationship is crucial for optimizing solar panel placement and tilt for maximum energy production.The solar altitude, or the angle of the sun above the horizon, is the primary determinant of solar irradiance received by a solar panel.
A higher solar altitude means the sun’s rays are more directly striking the panel’s surface, resulting in a greater amount of solar energy being collected. Conversely, a lower solar altitude leads to more oblique sunlight, spreading the same amount of energy over a larger area of the panel, reducing the overall energy capture. This effect is further complicated by atmospheric scattering and absorption, which are more pronounced at lower solar altitudes.
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Optimal Solar Panel Tilt Angle for Flagstaff, AZ on June 20th, 2025
Determining the optimal tilt angle for solar panels requires considering the specific latitude and the time of year. For Flagstaff, Arizona (approximately 35°N latitude), on June 20th (near the summer solstice), the sun’s path is high in the sky. A tilt angle slightly less than the latitude, perhaps around 30-33 degrees, would generally be considered optimal for maximizing energy production on this date.
This allows the panels to effectively capture the high-angle sunlight prevalent during the summer months. While a tilt angle equal to the latitude is often suggested as a general rule, slightly adjusting the angle based on specific seasonal variations can lead to modest improvements in energy yield. More sophisticated methods, involving detailed solar irradiance modeling specific to Flagstaff, AZ, can refine this angle even further.
However, for practical purposes, a tilt angle within the 30-33 degree range provides a strong starting point for maximizing energy collection on June 20th, 2025.
Shadowing Effects
Shadowing significantly impacts the efficiency of solar energy collection. Understanding the potential sources and their effects on solar panel performance in Flagstaff, Arizona, on June 20th, 2025, is crucial for optimizing system design and energy yield. The high sun angle on this date, while beneficial, also means that even relatively small obstacles can cast substantial shadows over a significant portion of the day.The primary sources of shadowing in Flagstaff on June 20th, 2025, will likely include buildings, trees, and even nearby hills or mountains.
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The impact of these shadows will vary depending on the size and orientation of the obstruction, as well as the time of day and the solar panel array’s positioning. Shadows cast during the peak sunlight hours will naturally reduce energy generation more significantly than those occurring during dawn or dusk.
Shadow Patterns Cast by a Hypothetical Building, Solar angle flagstaff az june 20th 2025
Let’s consider a hypothetical three-story building located approximately 50 feet east of a south-facing solar panel array. At sunrise, a long, thin shadow stretches westward, initially obscuring a small portion of the array. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the shadow shrinks, its length decreasing and its area on the array diminishing. By midday, the shadow may be minimal or nonexistent, with the building casting a short shadow directly to its west.
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Back to the solar angle, precise calculations are key for maximizing efficiency and minimizing energy loss in Flagstaff during that specific date.
However, as the sun begins its descent in the afternoon, the shadow lengthens again, this time stretching eastward. This evening shadow will gradually cover more and more of the solar panel array until sunset, when the entire array is once again in shadow. The intensity of the shadow will also vary; the shadow will be darkest during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon, when the sun is at a relatively lower angle, and less intense at other times.
This dynamic shadow pattern throughout the day would result in a reduced energy output compared to an unshaded array. The specific pattern would depend on the building’s exact dimensions, its distance from the array, and the precise orientation of both. For example, a taller building would cast a longer shadow for a longer period, while a building further away would cast a shorter, less impactful shadow.
A slightly different orientation of the solar panels themselves would also alter the pattern of shadow cast upon them.
Comparison to Other Dates
The solar angle in Flagstaff, Arizona, varies significantly throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt on its axis and its revolution around the sun. Comparing the solar angle on June 20th, the summer solstice, to December 21st, the winter solstice, provides a clear illustration of this variation and its impact on solar energy collection.The substantial differences in solar altitude and azimuth between the summer and winter solstices in Flagstaff directly affect the amount of sunlight received and the length of the day.
These differences are primarily due to the Earth’s axial tilt of approximately 23.5 degrees. During the summer solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, resulting in higher solar altitudes and longer daylight hours. Conversely, during the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, leading to lower solar altitudes and shorter daylight hours.
Solar Altitude and Azimuth Differences
The solar altitude, or the angle of the sun above the horizon, is considerably higher on June 20th than on December 21st in Flagstaff. On June 20th, the sun reaches a much higher point in the sky, resulting in more direct sunlight. Conversely, on December 21st, the sun remains relatively low in the sky throughout the day. The solar azimuth, which is the sun’s compass bearing, also differs significantly.
On June 20th, the sun’s path is more northerly, while on December 21st, it’s more southerly. This means the sun’s position relative to south-facing solar panels will be quite different on these two dates.
Impact on Solar Energy Collection
The differences in solar altitude and azimuth between June 20th and December 21st have a profound impact on solar energy collection.
- Increased Solar Irradiance on June 20th: The higher solar altitude on June 20th results in a greater concentration of solar energy per unit area. Sunlight travels through less atmosphere, reducing scattering and absorption, leading to higher irradiance at the surface. This translates to significantly more solar energy reaching solar panels.
- Longer Daylight Hours on June 20th: The longer daylight hours on June 20th provide a more extended period for solar energy collection. This significantly increases the total amount of energy produced by solar panels compared to December 21st.
- Reduced Energy Production on December 21st: The lower solar altitude and shorter daylight hours on December 21st result in a substantial decrease in solar energy production. The lower angle of incidence means the same amount of solar energy is spread over a larger area on the solar panel, reducing efficiency. Additionally, the shorter daylight hours limit the total energy collected.
- Angle of Incidence: The angle at which sunlight strikes a solar panel is crucial. On June 20th, the angle of incidence is more favorable for optimal energy absorption, whereas on December 21st, the lower angle leads to increased reflection and reduced energy capture.
Geographic Considerations
Flagstaff, Arizona’s location significantly influences its solar angle and consequently, the amount of solar energy received. The interplay of latitude, elevation, and geographical features creates a unique solar regime compared to locations at different latitudes or altitudes. Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing solar energy collection and predicting shadowing effects.Flagstaff’s latitude and elevation are the primary geographical determinants of its solar path.
Latitude’s Influence on Solar Angle and Daylight Hours
Flagstaff’s relatively high latitude (approximately 35.2° N) dictates the sun’s maximum altitude throughout the year. Being in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun’s path is higher in the summer (June solstice) and lower in the winter (December solstice). This directly impacts the intensity of solar radiation received; higher altitudes mean more direct sunlight and greater energy intensity. The higher latitude also results in a longer duration of daylight during the summer and shorter days during the winter.
For instance, on June 20th, Flagstaff experiences significantly longer daylight hours compared to locations closer to the equator. The difference in daylight hours between the summer and winter solstices is substantial, highlighting the effect of latitude on solar energy availability.
Elevation’s Impact on Solar Irradiance
Flagstaff’s high elevation (approximately 7,000 feet above sea level) reduces the atmospheric attenuation of solar radiation. The thinner atmosphere at higher altitudes means less scattering and absorption of sunlight, resulting in increased solar irradiance reaching the ground. This increased irradiance translates to a higher potential for solar energy collection compared to lower-elevation locations at the same latitude. However, it’s important to note that high altitude also means increased exposure to UV radiation.
Combined Effects of Latitude and Elevation on Solar Energy
The combined effect of Flagstaff’s high latitude and elevation results in a unique solar resource profile. While the high latitude limits the maximum solar altitude compared to equatorial regions, the high elevation compensates by reducing atmospheric losses. This leads to a relatively good solar resource, particularly during the summer months. The longer daylight hours of the summer, coupled with higher irradiance due to the elevation, contribute to the overall solar energy potential in Flagstaff.
This explains why Flagstaff, despite its relatively high latitude, is a suitable location for solar energy generation. Precise calculations require detailed meteorological data, but the general principle holds true: higher latitude implies variations in daylight hours, and higher elevation results in increased solar irradiance.
