Sunrise Sunset Calculator

Category: Physics
- August 14, 2025
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Calculate the sunrise and sunset times for any location around the world. Simply enter your location details or use your current position.

Location Settings

Date Settings

Display Options

About Sunrise and Sunset

Sunrise and sunset times vary depending on location, date, and various astronomical factors. The exact times are calculated based on the position of the sun relative to the horizon.

Factors Affecting Sunrise and Sunset Times
  • Latitude: The closer to the poles, the more extreme the variations in day length throughout the year.
  • Time of Year: The seasons affect day length, with longer days in summer and shorter in winter (reversed in the Southern Hemisphere).
  • Altitude: Higher elevations can see the sun earlier at sunrise and later at sunset.
  • Atmospheric Refraction: The atmosphere bends light, making the sun visible before it physically rises above the horizon.
Special Cases
  • Polar Day (Midnight Sun): Above the Arctic Circle and below the Antarctic Circle, the sun may not set for days or weeks during summer.
  • Polar Night: Conversely, the sun may not rise for extended periods during winter in these regions.
  • Equinox: Around March 21 and September 22, day and night are approximately equal worldwide.
  • Solstice: Around June 21 (summer in Northern Hemisphere) and December 21 (winter in Northern Hemisphere), day length reaches its maximum or minimum.

Understanding the Sunrise Sunset Calculator

The Sunrise Sunset Calculator is a handy tool that helps you find out when the sun will rise and set for any spot on Earth. Whether you’re planning a picnic or just curious about the light, this calculator provides accurate times based on your location and chosen date. It makes it easy to see how daylight changes throughout the year.

How to Use the Calculator Effectively

Getting started with the Sunrise Sunset Calculator is straightforward. You can choose to input your location by city name, exact coordinates, or even your current position. Simply enter the required details and select a date to find out the sunrise and sunset times. It’s designed to be user-friendly for everyone, no matter your tech skills.

Location Input Options for Everyone

You have different ways to tell the calculator where you are. Here are the options:

  • City or Location: Just type in the name of your city.
  • Coordinates: Enter the latitude and longitude if you have them.
  • Current Location: Use your device’s GPS to get your location.

Choosing the Right Date for Accurate Results

The date you pick can make a significant difference in sunrise and sunset times. The calculator allows you to select any date on the calendar. This feature helps you understand how day length changes with the seasons, which is useful for planning outdoor activities or photography sessions.

Understanding Time Formats and Twilight

The calculator offers options for displaying time in either 12-hour or 24-hour formats. This way, you can choose what you’re most comfortable with. Additionally, you can check the box to see twilight times, which can be helpful if you want to know when it’s light enough to be outside before sunrise or after sunset.

Visualising the Day/Night Cycle

One of the cool features of the Sunrise Sunset Calculator is its visualisation of the day and night cycle. This diagram shows how daylight varies throughout the day. You can see how long the day lasts and when the sun is at its highest point, known as solar noon. This visualisation makes it easier to grasp the concept of daylight changes.

Twilight Explained: What You Need to Know

Twilight refers to the time of day when the sun is just below the horizon. It breaks down into three types:

  • Civil Twilight: Enough light for activities without additional light sources.
  • Nautical Twilight: The horizon is visible at sea; outdoor activities require light.
  • Astronomical Twilight: Dark enough for astronomers to observe celestial bodies.

Factors That Affect Sunrise and Sunset Times

Several variables influence when the sun rises and sets at any location. These include:

  • Latitude: The closer you are to the poles, the more the day length varies.
  • Time of Year: Seasons play a big role in how long the days last.
  • Altitude: Being at a higher elevation can change the timings.
  • Atmospheric Refraction: The atmosphere can make the sun visible before it rises above the horizon.