Show HN: Every mountain, building and tree shadow mapped for any date and time (shademap.app)

Article summary

The article presents an online tool that maps shadows for any date and time, allowing users to simulate shadows cast by buildings, trees, and terrain in 3D. The tool can be used for various purposes, such as planning sun exposure for solar panels or finding the best spot to park a car. The tool uses online data and does not require installation or purchase of additional software. It provides features like shadow accumulation and shadow accrual maps.

Main themes

• Shadow mapping
• Solar exposure
• Urban planning
• Geospatial data
• Online tools

What commenters say

• The tool is useful for various practical applications, such as planning sun exposure for solar panels or finding the best spot to park a car.
• The accuracy of the tool's shadow mapping varies depending on the location and availability of height data.
• Some users find the tool's free version to be inaccurate, while the paid version provides more detailed and accurate information.
• The tool's claim of mapping 'every' building and tree shadow is an overstatement, as it relies on available data and may not work in areas with limited information.
• The tool's usefulness is limited by the quality and availability of geospatial data, particularly in rural or under-mapped areas.
• The paid version of the tool may be worth the investment for users who need more accurate and detailed information.
• The tool's interface and features, such as the sun view with angles, are informative and useful, but some features are only available in the paid version.