Compass

The MyCircadianApp Compass is a valuable tool for anyone wanting to view the sunrise and sunset, as it helps you identify the precise direction in which these events will occur. Here’s how a compass functions for this purpose:

1. Understanding Cardinal Directions

A compass shows the four main cardinal directions: North (N), East (E), South (S), and West (W). By aligning the compass with these directions, you can determine where the sun will rise and set:

Sunrise: The sun rises in the east. While it may vary slightly depending on the season and your location (shifting slightly north or south), it generally rises in the eastern part of the sky.
Sunset: The sun sets in the west, with similar slight seasonal variations to the north or south.

2. Seasonal Variations

Due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis and its orbit around the sun, the exact point on the horizon where the sun rises and sets shifts throughout the year:

Summer: The sun rises and sets more towards the north (northeast for sunrise and northwest for sunset in the Northern Hemisphere).
Winter: The sun rises and sets more towards the south (southeast for sunrise and southwest for sunset in the Northern Hemisphere). Using a compass, you can adjust your position slightly to account for these seasonal variations by facing a little north or south from due east or west.

3. Benefits of a Compass

Precision: A compass ensures you’re looking in the exact direction of the sunrise or sunset, even if it’s cloudy or difficult to estimate by sight.
Helpful in New Locations: If you're in an unfamiliar place and unsure of the landscape, a compass can help you orient yourself to find the best viewing spot.
Assists Planning: Knowing the precise direction helps you plan where to sit, position your camera, or pick the ideal location for unobstructed views of these events.

In short, a compass is an essential tool for accurately finding the direction of the sunrise and sunset, allowing you to align your position for optimal viewing, regardless of location or season.