Astronomy Data
Sun and moon information for photographers, astronomers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Overview
OSS Weather provides comprehensive astronomy data including sun and moon positions, rise/set times, phases, and special events.
Sun Data
Sun Position
- Real-time position - Current sun location in the sky
- Sun path visualization - Arc showing sun movement
- Altitude and azimuth - Precise position coordinates
Sun Times
- Sunrise - When the sun rises above the horizon
- Sunset - When the sun sets below the horizon
- Solar Noon - When the sun reaches its highest point
- Day Length - Total daylight hours
Twilight Periods
- Civil Twilight - Bright enough to see without artificial light
- Nautical Twilight - Horizon visible for navigation
- Astronomical Twilight - Dark enough for astronomy
Golden Hour & Blue Hour
- Golden Hour - Best time for photography (warm light)
- Morning: After sunrise
- Evening: Before sunset
- Blue Hour - Deep blue sky (great for cityscapes)
- Morning: Before sunrise
- Evening: After sunset
Moon Data
Moon Position
- Current position - Where the moon is in the sky
- Moon path - Arc showing moon movement
- Altitude and azimuth - Position coordinates
Moon Times
- Moonrise - When the moon rises
- Moonset - When the moon sets
- Moon Transit - When the moon is highest
Moon Phase
- Current Phase - Visual representation
- Phase Name - New, crescent, quarter, gibbous, full
- Illumination - Percentage of moon lit
- Phase Calendar - Upcoming phases
Lunar Cycle
- Days to Full Moon
- Days to New Moon
- Days since New Moon
Special Events
Eclipses
When available:
- Solar Eclipses - Moon blocks sun
- Lunar Eclipses - Earth's shadow on moon
- Visibility - Whether visible from your location
- Timing - When eclipse occurs
Blue Moon
Rare occurrence of second full moon in a month.
Supermoon
When the moon is closest to Earth (appears larger).
Using Astronomy Data
Photography
Golden Hour Photography:
- Check golden hour times
- Arrive 15-30 minutes early
- Best light quality for landscapes
Astrophotography:
- Check moon phase (new moon best)
- Verify astronomical twilight
- Clear sky conditions
Moon Photography:
- Check moonrise time
- Look for high moon position
- Consider phase (full moon impressive)
Outdoor Activities
Hiking:
- Plan around sunrise/sunset
- Use twilight for extended daylight
- Consider moon illumination for night hikes
Camping:
- Moon phase affects darkness
- Sunrise/sunset for planning
- Day length for activities
Fishing:
- Many fish are active during moon phases
- Sunrise/sunset are prime times
- Check tidal effects (if coastal)
Astronomy
Star Gazing:
- New moon best (darkest sky)
- Check astronomical twilight end
- Verify cloud cover
Planet Viewing:
- Check clear sky
- Note twilight times
- Moon phase consideration
Visualization
Sun Path Diagram
Interactive diagram showing:
- Sun arc across the sky
- Current position
- Rise/set points
- Peak altitude
Moon Path Diagram
Similar to sun:
- Moon arc
- Current position
- Rise/set points
Phase Calendar
Visual calendar showing:
- Daily moon phases
- Full moon dates
- New moon dates
- Quarter phases
Data Accuracy
Sun/moon calculations are very accurate:
- Times accurate to ±1 minute
- Positions accurate to ±0.5°
- Based on standard algorithms
Customization
Display Options
- Show/hide specific data
- 12h or 24h time format
- Detailed or compact view
Tips & Tricks
Best Photography Times
Landscape:
- Golden hour (best light)
- Blue hour (dramatic sky)
Wildlife:
- Early morning (after sunrise)
- Late evening (before sunset)
Cityscapes:
- Blue hour (city lights + sky)
- Night (after astronomical twilight)
Planning
Day Trips:
- Check day length
- Plan around golden hours
- Note sunset for return
Multi-day Events:
- Moon illumination for camping
- Sunrise/sunset patterns
- Weather + astronomy together