Mastering Solar Timekeeping: A Comprehensive Guide to Telling Time with the Sun

 

As an adventure traveler, understanding how to tell time using the sun can be an invaluable skill, particularly when you find yourself in remote locations without access to conventional timekeeping devices. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore various methods for using the sun as a natural timepiece to enhance your outdoor experiences.

What is the interest of solar time ?

Solar time, based on the sun's position, provides a more accurate indication of daylight remaining compared to standard time, which is set by governments and time zones. For an adventurer seeking shelter, knowing solar time helps estimate when to start searching for a suitable campsite before nightfall, ensuring sufficient time for setup and preparation !

The Shadow Stick Method

Explanation: To use the shadow stick method, simply plant a stick vertically into the ground and observe the shadow it casts. As the sun moves across the sky, the shadow's position and length will change.

Place a stone to mark the shadow's location, let some time pass, and use a new stone to mark the updated position. By tracking these changes, you can estimate the time of day.

Keep in mind that the sun moves approximately 15 degrees per hour. This information will give you a general idea of how much time has passed. A 15-degree angle is roughly the angle between your fingers when you try to spread them apart.

Example: The shadow stick method works best on sunny days and flat terrain, where the shadow is clearly visible and easy to track. It works as its best closer to the ecuador.

💡: If you are planning to set up camp for more than one day, this method becomes very useful. You can actually transform it into a sundial to track the time throughout the day.

Limitations: On cloudy days or uneven terrain, it may be difficult to see the shadow or accurately track its movement, making this method less effective.

The Hand Method

Explanation: Using your hand to measure the sun's angle in the sky is another method of estimating the time. Hold your hand horizontally at arm's length, with your fingers together and your thumb extended. Align the bottom of your hand with the horizon, and count how many fingers widths fit between the horizon and the sun. One finger represent about 15 minutes of sun time.

Example: This method works best when you have an open view of the sky and are familiar with hand measurements. Each finger width represents about 15 minutes, and each hand width represents roughly one hour.

Limitations: The hand method can be less effective if your view of the sky is obstructed or if you lack experience with hand measurements, as it relies on a certain level of accuracy.

Solar Time Apps and Tools

Explanation: Modern technology offers a range of solar timekeeping apps and tools that can help you determine the time using the sun. These tools often use GPS coordinates and data from your smartphone to calculate the sun's position and the corresponding time.

Example: Solar time apps and tools work best when you have access to a smartphone and a reliable GPS signal.

Limitations: These methods are less effective when battery life is a concern or when you're in remote locations without access to a GPS signal or smartphone.

In summary, mastering solar timekeeping can be a valuable skill for adventure travelers. By understanding the shadow stick, watch, hand, and app-based methods, you'll be better equipped to navigate and enjoy your adventures in nature. Remember, each method has its own set of strengths and limitations, so having a grasp of multiple techniques will ensure you're always prepared to the unexpected.