Solar Pathfinder

solar pathfinder top view

Solar Pathfinder

The Standard for Accurate Solar Site Analysis

The Solar Pathfinder™ is a durable non-electronic tool that provides accurate site-specific solar analysis using reflection-based shading assessment. With no power or sunlight required, it works year-round—rain or shine. Simple to use and built to last, it’s ideal for PV, thermal and ecological applications. Pair with software to generate precise professional reports and save 5% site-wide.

Solar Pathfinder

This package includes the accurate and user-friendly SolarPathfinder, plus a sturdy tripod and protective case.

$299.00 - $349.00

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Features

Get accurate, long-term solar analysis with Pathfinder’s straightforward, durable and user-friendly design.

Solar Pathfinder™

The Solar Pathfinder™ is a non-electronic solar site analysis tool used to determine year-round solar access and shading patterns.

Sunpath Diagram

Sunpath diagrams display solar time, paths and radiation for varied latitudes and tilts, enabling optimal placement.

Dome

The dome reflects both the site and sunpath diagram in a single view, enabling quick and accurate shading analysis across seasons.

Magnetic Declination Adjustment

Allows users to adjust for magnetic declination by rotating the diagram with the tab to the correct value.

Base

The base section provides a stable platform; adjust height and location with tripod/beanbag for secure placement.

Instrument

The instrument section enables accurate setup by attaching, leveling and orienting the compass to north.

How The Solar Pathfinder™ Is Used

Using a reflective dome, the Solar Pathfinder™ captures site shading. When combined with a sunpath diagram, this allows for quick identification of shading obstructions and their impact on solar availability. By placing the unit at the desired location, installers gain a clear understanding of the site's solar potential.

01

PV Solar Power

01PV Solar Power

Optimize PV panel placement by analyzing shading, maximizing energy capture for efficient solar power systems.

Solar Panels in a green field

02

Thermal Hot Water

02Thermal Hot Water

Assess shading to optimize solar thermal collector placement, ensuring efficient hot water system performance and energy savings.

Outdoor water faucet that is put in the shaded area to run cold water

03

Passive Solar House Design

03Passive Solar House Design

Analyze shading to inform passive solar design, maximizing natural light and heat gain for energy-efficient homes.

Man sitting at desk working on blueprints for a house

04

Landscaping/Greenhouses

04Landscaping/Greenhouses

Determine optimal placement for gardens or greenhouses by analyzing shading to maximize sunlight and plant health.

Inside shot of a green house catching the sunlight

05

Environmental

05Environmental

Promotes informed decisions for sustainable energy use by accurately assessing shading's impact on solar potential.

Agricultural fields with wind turbines and a small town

See why we're trusted.

As a startup business trying to fund my own expenses this is truly the choice for value. Thank you for providing the tried and true, dependable, and accurate solar shade analysis tool!
- Chris
We have found the Solar Pathfinder to be a simple tool for training certified solar site assessors. The Solar Pathfinder provides all the answers for people in the field and the home owner.
- Clay S.
I pulled out my Solar Pathfinder at a recent MREA wind site assessor workshop and created a buzz when I used it for calculating tree height for wind applications.
- Craig T.
Unsurpassed for the professional analysis of solar characteristics at any proposed site and for a graphic display to clients.
- Dean M.
The Solar Pathfinder is a must have piece of gear for every installer's tool kit!
- Joe Schwartz; CEO & Tech Editor of HomePower Magazine
Once again, I used my trusty Solar Pathfinder. This time, I needed to find a place for my bee hives. Being in a warmer climate, I wanted them to spend their time making honey, not trying to keep their hive cool!
- Living Off the Grid
By using the Pathfinder this afternoon I see I have 2 good sites in my backyard for a greenhouse, and I also see I could add a workable sunroom to my house. I feel that the Pathfinder paid for itself already.
- Ron P.