A model is proposed for calculation of the shape and contact angle of droplets placed on solid substrates, which is based on the oblate spheroid approximation. Illustrative examples of calculation of various geometrical characteristics of the droplets are presented. Calculated contact angles show their actual independence of the droplet weight in a broad range of volumes. The useful application to the goniometry is proposed. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.