Manhattanhenge: A Unique Sunset Phenomenon in New York
Twice a year, New York tourists and visitors get to witness a phenomenon known as Manhattanhenge. During this event, the setting sun aligns perfectly with Manhattan’s street grid and descends below the horizon, creating a stunning view amidst the skyscrapers of the city. Photographers particularly love capturing this unique sunset, and many people gather on the sidewalk to witness the spectacle during spring and summer evenings. Manhattanhenge is set to occur this year on May 28 and 29, as well as on July 12 and 13.
The term "Manhattanhenge" was coined by astronomer Neil deGrasse Tyson in 1997 in an article he wrote for Natural History magazine. Inspired by a visit to Stonehenge as a teenager, Tyson drew parallels between the phenomenon of the sun setting among Manhattan’s tall buildings and the sun’s rays falling on the center of the Stonehenge circle during the solstice. Unlike the intentional alignment of Stonehenge, Manhattanhenge occurs naturally, with the sun perfectly aligning with the east-west streets of Manhattan about three weeks before and after the summer solstice.
During Manhattanhenge, half of the sun is visible above the horizon while the other half dips below on May 28 and July 13. On May 29 and July 12, the entire sun appears to hover between buildings just before disappearing below the horizon. Traditional viewing sites for Manhattanhenge include the city’s wide east-west avenues such as 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, 42nd Street, and 57th Street. For a more dramatic view, spectators can head further east along the streets where the sun’s rays fall on the facades of buildings on both sides. Additionally, the phenomenon can be seen across the East River in Queens.
Manhattanhenge Viewing and Other City "Henges"
While Manhattanhenge is not an organized event, viewing parties do take place each year, attracting photography enthusiasts and curious spectators alike. These gatherings are mostly informal affairs where people come together on the streets half an hour before sunset to capture the magical moment. However, Manhattanhenge is only visible under clear skies, as rainy or cloudy weather can obstruct the view of the sunset alignment. Similar sunset effects, known as "henges," can be observed in other cities with grid systems like Chicago, Baltimore, and Toronto around the equinoxes in March and September. However, Manhattanhenge stands out due to its tall buildings and unobstructed view towards the Hudson River, making it a particularly striking spectacle for those in New York City.
