SCSA: The Pole-to-Dial Converter-Calculator

Use the SCSA "Pole-to-Dial Converter-Calculator" to convert any vertical pole (e.g., a flagpole, utility pole, etc.) into a fully functional sundial featuring "date curves" (declination lines) for the equinoxes and solstices.

Enter your latitude and gnomon height (pole height) below, then click on the "Calculate!" button. The Pole-to-Dial Converter-Calculator will calculate all of the hour angles and distances that you need to construct the date curves on your sundial.

To find your latitude and longitude, consult a good map or visit:

CAUTION: This table will not work well for latitudes smaller than 4 degrees.

Enter your latitude in degrees
(positive values only):

Enter gnomon height (unit-independent)
(positive values only):

Distance CG: units
Recommended minimum dial plate radius: units
Hour Line Angles B
12 noon:
degrees
11 am, 1 pm:
degrees
10 am, 2 pm:
degrees
9 am, 3 pm:
degrees
8 am, 4 pm:
degrees
7 am, 5 pm:
degrees
6 am, 6 pm:
degrees

Date Curve Points
  Distance CS Distance CE Distance CW
12 noon:
units units units
11 am, 1 pm:
units units units
10 am, 2 pm:
units units units
9 am, 3 pm:
units units units
8 am, 4 pm:
units units units
7 am, 5 pm:
units units units
6 am, 6 pm:
units units units

These are general illustrations for your guidance. The patterns you see are not drawn for the latitude you entered.