Manhattanhenge Is Back: When and Where to Watch
The New York Times
After mediocre weather during the event’s first two nights in May, New Yorkers get another opportunity to celebrate longer days, warmer weather and epic summer sunsets.
A low cap of clouds toyed with New Yorkers in May as they attempted to take in the first appearances of the solar spectacle known as Manhattanhenge. But on Friday and Saturday, those who missed out on the quintessential summer sight get a second chance.
Each year at the end of May, and again in mid-July, residents and tourists flood the streets of Manhattan for a spectacular view of the sun setting in the west, flanked by the city’s famous streetscapes. The event attracts more people each year, some gathering in dense crowds as they dart in and out of the streets, their necks tilted and their camera lenses raised to catch a view.
“I think of it as astronomy in your face,” said Jackie Faherty, an astronomer at the American Museum of Natural History who computes the dates for Manhattanhenge each year. “It’s like a huge science party that will occur in the city.”
The event’s popularity most likely goes beyond an interest in science, Dr. Faherty added: People love a good photo op, and when the weather cooperates, Manhattanhenge delivers.
Manhattanhenge’s second and final appearance this summer will be on the evenings of Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13, following the earlier sunsets in late May.
According to the American Museum of Natural History, Manhattanhenge will reach its fullest effect at 8:21 p.m. on the 12th, and at 8:20 p.m. on the 13th.
