Every summer, there is a natural phenomenon in Manhattan called Manhattanhenge, where the sun sets in perfect alignment with east to west numbered streets. The term “Manhattanhenge” was coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium, as a play on Stonehenge, where the sun aligns with the stones on the sunrise of the summer solstice with the same effect. Take advantage of the long summer nights by catching a view of this breathtaking sunset. You have a chance to watch this magnificent sight for four nights and, most importantly, take beautiful photos and do it for the ‘Gram!
This year, you can see Manhattanhenge on Thursday, May 30 at 8:12pm, and Friday, July 12, at 8:20pm. The half sun can be viewed on Wednesday, May 29, at 8:12pm, and Saturday, July 13, at 8:21pm.
The best places to watch Manhattanhenge are large cross streets such as 14th, 34th, 42nd, 57th, and 79th streets. It is advised to show up 30 minutes before each of these times to get a prime view.
In honor of the recurring phenomenon, the American Museum of Natural History is hosting a program on Thursday, July 11 to discuss the history and astronomy of it. Jackie Faherty, a research associate of the museum's Department of Astrophysics, will lead the presentation at 7pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13.50 for students and seniors.
Happy viewing!
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Main image: A view of Manhattanhenge on 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue.
Courtesy Flickr/Shmuel/CC 4.0
