Tuesday evening saw New Yorkers line up on their city’s streets, eager to witness the ‘Manhattanhenge’ spectacle.
This semi-annual solar alignment draws spectators from all over, and it will captivate audiences again tonight before taking its leave.
Understanding ‘Manhattanhenge’
New York City’s grid system is not only practical for urban planning, but it also sets the stage for a stunning visual event each May and July, as sunlight floods along the east-west streets.
The setting sun aligns with Manhattan’s straight streets. Pic: Reuters
Named after Stonehenge, where the sun aligns with the stones during the summer solstice, ‘Manhattanhenge’ illuminates the streets with a breathtaking glow as the sun sets in perfect alignment with the city’s grid.
The event attracts throngs of people all hoping to witness and photograph the phenomenon.
Stonehenge solstice celebration. Pic: AP
Unfortunately, cloud cover prevented a clear view last night, leaving the sun mostly hidden.
Tonight offers another chance to see ‘Manhattanhenge’, despite the Met Office predicting partly cloudy skies.
Those missed it will have to wait until the dates of 12 and 13 July for the next occurrence.
The American Museum of Natural History suggests several vantage points, including 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, 42nd Street, and 57th Street. They advise spectators to “locate a position as far east in Manhattan that still provides a view across the Hudson to New Jersey,” according to their blog post on ‘Manhattanhenge’.
Eager viewers snapping photos of ‘Manhattanhenge’. Pic: Reuters
Explanation for ‘Manhattanhenge’
The location of the sunset shifts northward up to the summer solstice on 20 July and then reverses direction. This is due to the axial tilt of the Earth as it orbits the sun.
The American Museum of Natural History notes that ‘Manhattanhenge’ might be a singular urban occurrence globally, owing to the borough’s unobstructed horizon and precise road alignment.
US astronomy enthusiasts also enjoyed other celestial events this year.
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Last month’s total solar eclipse was witnessed by people in the US, Canada, and Mexico, inciting tears and cheers as the moon passed in front of the sun.
Also, star gazers across the northern hemisphere had the chance to marvel at the Northern Lights unexpectedly illuminating the skies.
With solar activity at a high in its 11-year cycle, additional views of the Northern Lights may soon be on the horizon.
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FAQs about ‘Manhattanhenge’
1. What is ‘Manhattanhenge’?
Manhattanhenge is a natural phenomenon in New York City during which the setting sun aligns itself with the east-west streets of the city’s main grid pattern. It occurs twice a year, typically around May and July.
2. Why does ‘Manhattanhenge’ happen?
It occurs because of the tilt of the Earth’s axis. As the Earth rotates around the sun, the position at which we observe sunset shifts northwards until the summer solstice, and then it reverses direction.
3. When can I see ‘Manhattanhenge’?
‘Manhattanhenge’ happens twice annually. In 2023, after the May occurrences, it will happen again on July 12 and 13.
4. Where is the best place to view ‘Manhattanhenge’?
Good viewing spots include 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, 42nd Street, and 57th Street. Try to find a clear view toward New Jersey, across the Hudson River.
5. Will ‘Manhattanhenge’ be visible if it’s cloudy?
Cloudy conditions can obscure the view of ‘Manhattanhenge’. If it’s lightly clouded, there’s still a chance to catch a glimpse, but heavy clouds may completely block the sunset view.
