I need to use the sunrise equation but one of the variables is the sun declination. On the other hand, I have the values for solar elevation angle that I need. Are they the same thing?
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Elevation and Declination are from different co-ordinate systems, so solar elevation is given in Alt/Az co-ordinates and refers to the elevation above the local horizon. Sun declination is measured in RA/Dec co-ordinates (which is an equatorial co-ordinate system) and measures the Sun's inclination above or below the equator on the celestial sphere.
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$\begingroup$ Is there a way to convert between the two? $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 29, 2017 at 15:24
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$\begingroup$ @Goldname You might find this tool useful esrl.noaa.gov/gmd/grad/solcalc/azel.html $\endgroup$– DeanCommented Jun 29, 2017 at 16:19