Ancient Passive-Solar Design
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1. Noon, winter solstice, White House ruin, Canyon de Chelly (36.1º N latitude, elevation 5,000 ft (1,524 m)). The orientation of the buildings is ideal for passive-solar heating and lighting because the longest wall area faces the winter sun to the south. In addition, the natural overhang still lets in the full solar exposure of the winter sun that travels low across the southern horizon. I took this photo standing due south of the ruin.
