Here's something for you to think about. If you ask the question: What is the best latitude(s) for a particular type of sundial? How would you answer that question? How would you define "best latitude".
One way of defining best latitude(s) would be those latitudes where the sundial type functions for the maximum number of hours in a year. (this is the same as maximum number of hours its face receives sunlight). Using this definition, what would be the best latitude for a south vertical wall dial in the northern hemisphere? Where would it function for the greatest number of hours in a year? How bout a horizontal dial or an equatorial? Note: Forget the effects of cloudy weather, horizon pollution and, eclipses at different latitudes! John John L. Carmichael Jr. Sundial Sculptures 925 E. Foothills Dr. Tucson Arizona 85718 USA Tel: 520-696-1709 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Website: <http://www.sundialsculptures.com> ----- Original Message ----- From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "John Carmichael" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2003 11:51 PM Subject: Re: vertical wall dial latitudes? John > But I've changed my mind. I'm not going to say >that anymore just in case someone from Finland writes! Or even Svalbard at 78° North where they are soon to receive their first ever sundial. ;-) You've given yourself quite a task of late. One of my most-used 'tools' is the 'Universal Diallists' Companion' which Mike Shaw used to supply. Whenever I get into a conceptual knot about e.g. factors affecting the illumination of a north facing wall it always comes to my aid. Have fun Tony -
