Day Length
12h 11m
Sunrise
05:59
Sunset
18:10
Day Length
12h 11m
Sunrise
05:59
Sunset
18:10
Solar Noon
12:04
Golden Hour AM
05:59–06:35
Golden Hour PM
17:34–18:10
Inputs
Result
Spring equinox: nearly equal day and night. Sunrise ~7:04, sunset ~7:13 EDT.
Inputs
Result
Summer solstice at high latitude: sunrise ~4:20, sunset ~11:42 AKDT.
This calculator uses NOAA solar position equations based on Julian day number, solar declination, and hour angle geometry. The sun's position is computed from Earth's orbital mechanics, and sunrise/sunset occur when the sun is 0.833° below the horizon (accounting for atmospheric refraction).
| Season | NYC Day Length | LA Day Length |
|---|---|---|
| Summer Solstice | 15h 5m | 14h 26m |
| Equinox | 12h 9m | 12h 7m |
| Winter Solstice | 9h 15m | 9h 53m |
Golden hour is when the sun is within 6° of the horizon, producing warm, soft, directional light ideal for photography. Morning golden hour starts at sunrise and lasts 30–60 minutes. Evening golden hour begins 30–60 minutes before sunset.
Earth's tilted axis (23.4°) causes different sun angles at different latitudes. Higher latitudes have more extreme seasonal variation—from 6-hour winter days to 18-hour summer days. Longitude affects the clock time within a time zone.
This implementation uses NOAA's simplified solar equations, accurate to within 1–2 minutes for most locations. Exact times vary slightly due to local terrain, atmospheric conditions, and altitude. For critical applications (aviation, religious observance), use official NOAA or naval observatory data.
Outdoor and utility calculators
Last Updated: Mar 20, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.