Solar Radiation Sensor (Sunload Sensor)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The solar radiation sensor supplies information to the dual-zone HVAC module indicating sunload. When sunload is detected, the information from the sensor is used to lower the A/C temperature output to compensate for radiant heat warming the vehicle interior and occupants.
The sunload sensor is located on the center of the instrument panel at the base of the windshield.