Navigating with the Sun: A Practical Guide for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Navigating using the sun is a timeless skill that has guided adventurers, explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts for centuries. For members of UKSN, mastering this natural navigation technique not only enhances outdoor experiences but also deepens the connection with the environment. This guide delves into the principles of solar navigation, offering practical insights tailored for the UK's unique geographical context.

Understanding the Sun's Path

The sun's journey across the sky is influenced by Earth's axial tilt and its orbit around the sun. In the UK, situated in the northern hemisphere, the sun's behaviour varies with the seasons:

• Equinoxes (March 21 and September 22): On these dates, the sun rises due east and sets due west.

• Summer Solstice (June 21): The sun rises north of east and sets north of west, resulting in longer daylight hours.

• Winter Solstice (December 22): The sun rises south of east and sets south of west, leading to shorter days.

These variations mean that the exact points of sunrise and sunset shift throughout the year, spanning approximately 90 degrees along the horizon between the solstices.

Determining Direction Using the Sun

At Sunrise and Sunset:

• Equinoxes: Facing the sun at sunrise points you east; at sunset, you're facing west.

• Summer Months: During sunrise, the sun is positioned north of east; at sunset, it's north of west.

• Winter Months: At sunrise, the sun is south of east; at sunset, it's south of west.

Midday Observations:

• In the UK, around midday (solar noon), the sun is due south. This is when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, casting the shortest shadow. By observing the direction of shadows at this time, you can establish a north-south line.

Practical Techniques for Solar Navigation

Shadow Stick Method:

• Materials Needed: A straight stick (approximately 1 metre in length) and a flat, unobstructed area.

• Procedure:

  • Place the stick vertically into the ground.

  • Mark the tip of the shadow cast by the stick.

  • After 15-30 minutes, mark the new position of the shadow tip.

  • Draw a straight line between the two marks; this line runs approximately west to east, with the first mark indicating west.

Estimating Direction Based on Time:

• Morning: Before midday, the sun is in the eastern part of the sky.

• Afternoon: After midday, the sun moves towards the western horizon.

• Estimating South: In the UK, the sun is due south at solar noon. By knowing the current time and understanding the sun's position, you can approximate the cardinal directions.

Seasonal Considerations

The sun's path changes with the seasons, affecting its position in the sky:

• Summer: The sun takes a higher arc across the sky, resulting in longer days and shorter shadows.

• Winter: The sun's arc is lower, leading to shorter days and longer shadows.

Being aware of these seasonal variations helps in making more accurate directional estimations.

Limitations and Challenges

While solar navigation is a valuable skill, it's essential to be aware of its limitations:

• Weather Conditions: Overcast skies can obscure the sun, making it challenging to determine direction.

• Time of Day: During dawn and dusk, the sun's position is low, and shadows can be elongated and less distinct.

• Latitude Impact: The sun's behaviour varies with latitude; techniques effective in the UK might require adjustments in other regions.

Integrating Solar Navigation with Other Techniques

For UKSN members, combining solar navigation with other natural methods enhances accuracy:

• Stellar Navigation: At night, use the North Star (Polaris) to find true north. Locate the Big Dipper constellation; the two stars at the edge of its 'bowl' point directly to Polaris.

• Environmental Cues: Observe plant growth patterns; in the UK, moss often grows on the northern side of trees due to reduced sunlight exposure.

Conclusion

Mastering solar navigation enriches the outdoor experience, fostering a deeper connection with nature. For UKSN members, this skill not only enhances self-sufficiency but also aligns with the community's ethos of embracing traditional, sustainable practices.

By understanding and applying the principles of solar navigation, you can confidently traverse the UK's diverse landscapes, guided by the timeless path of the sun.