Manhattanhenge, one of the highly anticipated annual events in New York City, captivated the gathering of New Yorkers on Tuesday evening. The renowned grid system of the city provided a picturesque frame for the setting sun, casting a radiant glow over the urban landscape.
This captivating phenomenon, drawing in thousands of enthusiastic onlookers including both tourists and locals, entices individuals to capture the perfect image as they witness the magic unfold. The first night of Manhattanhenge occurred on Monday, revealing only half of the setting sun. However, on Tuesday, the full brilliance of the sun was on full display, casting its radiant beams between the majestic skyscrapers during sunset.
For those who missed this breathtaking spectacle, the next opportunity to experience Manhattanhenge will be in July. This extraordinary event occurs when the sunset aligns harmoniously with Manhattan’s towering skyscrapers, a result of the city’s well-structured street grid layout. It is worth noting that other cities with similar characteristics, such as Chicago, Montreal, and Toronto, also witness their own version of this “henge” phenomenon.
The timing of Manhattanhenge is intricately linked to the summer solstice, taking place approximately three weeks before and after this significant astronomical event. The term “Manhattanhenge” was coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson in 1997, drawing inspiration from the alignment of the sun with the concentric circles of vertical stones at Stonehenge during the solstices.
To witness this awe-inspiring event during its upcoming occurrences, mark your calendars for July 12th at 20:20 and July 13th at 20:21, local time. Spectators positioned between 14th Street and 155th Street will have the opportunity to marvel at the spectacle firsthand. The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation recommends specific streets, including 57th Street, 42nd Street, 34th Street, 23rd Street, and 14th Street, for optimal viewing. While 42nd Street remains a popular vantage point, any east-west street will provide a generally favorable view, ensuring an unforgettable experience—just remember to position yourself as far east as possible.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the grandeur of Manhattanhenge, an event that seamlessly merges nature’s celestial beauty with the architectural splendor of New York City.
