Online Virtual Sundial (Solar Shadow Clock)

Authentic Gnomon Shadow Projection•Equation of Time Adjustment•Latitude-Calibrated Angle Tilt•Solar Time vs Clock Time Comparison

Humanity’s Earliest Precision Timekeeping Instrument

Experience the ancient science of horology. Our virtual sundial simulates a horizontal dial plate calibrated to your specific latitude, casting an authentic geometric shadow from the central style or gnomon as the Earth rotates.

Discover how the Equation of Time and orbital eccentricity explain why a sundial often differs by up to 16 minutes from standardized 24-hour wall clocks.

How to Use the Online Virtual Sundial

Set your geographic latitude to orient the virtual gnomon pin.

Watch the shadow line point to solar hour markers from VI AM to VI PM.

Compare local solar time with your digital device clock.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does a sundial work?

A sundial consists of a flat plate (dial) and a style or gnomon. As the sun moves across the sky, the gnomon casts a shadow onto the dial plate markings, indicating the time of day.

Why doesn’t a sundial match my watch?

Sundials indicate Local Apparent Solar Time. Standard clock time uses 24-hour time zones and does not account for the Earth’s orbital eccentricity and axial tilt (the Equation of Time), which can cause up to a 16-minute discrepancy.

Why must a sundial gnomon point towards the celestial pole?

Aligning the gnomon parallel to Earth’s axis of rotation ensures that shadow angles remain consistent throughout all seasons.

Ready to Use the Online Virtual Sundial?

Scroll up to start using this tool immediately with zero setup required.