Manhattanhenge: A Spectacular Sunset Phenomenon in New York City
NEW YORK (AP) — Twice a year, New Yorkers and visitors alike are treated to a breathtaking phenomenon known as Manhattanhenge, where the setting sun perfectly aligns with the Manhattan street grid and dips below the horizon amidst a canyon of skyscrapers. This event has become a favorite among photographers and draws crowds of people out onto the sidewalks on spring and summer evenings to witness this unique spectacle.
The first occurrence of Manhattanhenge this year is set to take place on May 28 at 8:13 p.m. followed by another on May 29 at 8:12 p.m. The phenomenon will repeat itself on July 12 and 13, providing more opportunities for spectators to marvel at the beauty of nature’s alignment with the city’s architecture.
Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson is credited with coining the term “Manhattanhenge” in a 1997 article in the magazine Natural History. Inspired by a visit to Stonehenge as a teenager, Tyson drew parallels between the alignment of the setting sun with Manhattan’s skyscrapers and the sun’s rays hitting the center of the Stonehenge circle on the solstice. While the Neolithic builders of Stonehenge intentionally aligned the structure with astronomical events, Manhattan’s grid layout was not designed with this in mind, making the phenomenon all the more serendipitous.
Manhattanhenge does not coincide with the summer solstice itself, which falls on June 20 this year. Instead, it occurs approximately three weeks before and after the solstice when the sun perfectly lines up with the east-west streets of Manhattan. Viewers have the option to witness two different versions of Manhattanhenge, depending on the date. On May 28 and July 13, half of the sun will be above the horizon during alignment, while on May 29 and July 12, the entire sun will appear to hover between buildings before setting over the Hudson River.
The best vantage points to view Manhattanhenge are along the city’s broad east-west thoroughfares such as 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, 42nd Street, and 57th Street. The farther east you go, the more dramatic the view as the sun’s rays illuminate the building facades on either side. Additionally, Manhattanhenge can also be seen from across the East River in the Long Island City section of Queens.
While Manhattanhenge viewing parties are not uncommon, the event is primarily a do-it-yourself affair. Spectators gather on the designated streets about half an hour before sunset, capturing the stunning moment through photographs as dusk approaches. However, the visibility of Manhattanhenge is dependent on clear weather conditions, as rainy or cloudy days may obstruct the view.
Similar phenomena, known as “henges,” occur in other cities with uniform street grids. Cities like Chicago, Baltimore, and Toronto have their own versions of henge events that align with their respective grid systems during different times of the year. However, Manhattanhenge stands out due to the height of the buildings and the unobstructed view of the sun setting over the Hudson River.
As New Yorkers and tourists gear up to witness the magic of Manhattanhenge this year, the event serves as a reminder of the harmonious relationship between nature and urban architecture, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience for all who have the opportunity to witness it.