Sun and Moon
Sunrise, Sunset, Lunar Phases and Wildlife Activity Periods
Fluvaro calculates sunrise and sunset times, moonrise and moonset, lunar phases and wildlife activity periods for your location, for today and any future date. All data is calculated locally by precise astronomical algorithms — it works even without an Internet connection.
Available data
- Sunrise — exact time when the upper edge of the sun crosses above the horizon.
- Sunset — time when the upper edge of the sun disappears below the horizon.
- Moonrise — time when the moon appears above the horizon.
- Moonset — time when the moon disappears below the horizon.
- Moon phase — new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, last quarter, waning crescent.
- Moon illumination — percentage of the lunar surface currently illuminated.
- Major and minor activity periods — time windows calculated from the relative position of the moon and sun, traditionally associated with peaks of fish and wildlife activity.
Outdoor activity applications
This astronomical data is useful for many activities:
- Fishing — Many anglers plan their outings around lunar phases and sunrise/sunset times, which often correspond to periods of active feeding in many species.
- Hiking and camping — Planning around lunar phases lets you optimize for stargazing nights (new moon) or benefit from natural lighting (full moon).
- Stargazing — New moon offers the best conditions for amateur astronomy; full moon masks fainter stars.
- Sea kayaking — In coastal areas, the moon phase influences tidal amplitude. Spring tides (full and new moons) create stronger currents.
How the calculation works
Fluvaro's astronomical calculations use standard algorithms derived from astronomical ephemerides (Jean Meeus algorithms, VSOP87). These algorithms account for:
- Your precise latitude and longitude
- The date and local time zone
- Atmospheric refraction for sunrise and sunset times
- The actual distance and position of the moon and sun
The result is a 100% local calculation, accurate to within a few minutes, that works without an Internet connection. Ideal for remote areas.
Frequently asked questions about sun and moon
What time is sunrise today?
Sunrise time varies by your location and the date. Fluvaro calculates sunrise and sunset precisely for your position. Calculations work offline and you can navigate to any future date.
What is the moon phase today?
Fluvaro displays the current lunar phase as well as upcoming phases. A full lunar cycle takes approximately 29.5 days. The four main phases are: new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter.
What are major and minor activity periods?
These are time windows calculated from the relative position of the moon and sun, during which fish and wildlife activity is said to be more intense according to a popular fishing theory. A day typically has two major and two minor periods. Fluvaro calculates these periods precisely for your location.
How does the moon affect fishing?
The moon influences tides through gravitational attraction, which affects fish activity in coastal areas. Some anglers also associate lunar phases with freshwater fish activity. Fluvaro gives you all the data to plan your outings with these factors in mind.