Question 1

How accurate are the sunrise and sunset times?

Accepted Answer

Times are computed using standard astronomical algorithms (the SunCalc library). Accuracy is typically within 1–2 minutes for locations at normal latitudes. The calculation assumes a flat horizon at sea level — actual times vary with terrain elevation, atmospheric refraction, and obstructions on the horizon.

Question 2

What is golden hour?

Accepted Answer

Golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset when sunlight is soft, warm, and directional — ideal for photography. It typically lasts 20–60 minutes depending on your latitude and season. The closer you are to the equator, the shorter and more abrupt the golden hour.

Question 3

What does moon illumination percentage mean?

Accepted Answer

Moon illumination is the percentage of the Moon's visible disc that is lit by the Sun from Earth's perspective. 0% is a new moon (invisible), 50% is a quarter moon (half-lit disc), 100% is a full moon. The illumination grows (waxing) from new to full and shrinks (waning) back to new over approximately 29.5 days.

Question 4

Why does the tool show 'always up' for the moon?

Accepted Answer

Near the Arctic and Antarctic circles, the Moon can remain above or below the horizon for multiple days depending on the season and the Moon's orbital position. The calculator correctly shows this as 'always up' or 'always down' rather than fabricating a rise/set time.

Question 5

Does the tool need my location?

Accepted Answer

You can grant location access for automatic coordinates, or type any city name or latitude/longitude manually. All calculations run in your browser — your location is not sent to any server.

Sunrise, sunset & Moon

Accuracy note