Sun Path Diagram – Online Any Latitude for Architects

What is a Sun Path Diagram?
A sun path diagram is a polar projection that shows the sun's trajectory across the sky for a given latitude. Architects use it to analyze solar exposure, design shading devices, optimize building orientation, and assess daylight availability throughout the year.

How to read the concentric circles?
Each concentric circle represents a solar altitude angle (elevation above the horizon). The outermost circle is 0° (horizon), and the center point is 90° (zenith, directly overhead). The radial lines indicate azimuth — the compass direction of the sun.

Why do the curved lines differ by season?
The sun's declination changes throughout the year (±23.45°). In summer, the sun is higher and follows a longer arc (more daylight). In winter, it stays lower with a shorter arc. The equinox paths (Mar 21 & Sep 21) are identical, marking the average solar behavior.

Key solar terms explained:

• Solar Altitude — angle of the sun above the horizon (0°–90°)
• Solar Azimuth — compass direction of the sun (0°=North, 90°=East, 180°=South, 270°=West)
• Solar Declination — the sun's angular position north or south of the celestial equator (varies from +23.45° to -23.45°)
• Solar Noon — the moment when the sun crosses the local meridian (highest altitude of the day)
• Day Length — time between sunrise and sunset; varies with latitude and season