M A N H AT TA N H E N G E
New York, United States
Nature isn't something most people associate with
New York City. However, twice in the summer, an
urban celestial event occurs, and the setting sun
is perfectly framed within the east-west streets
of the city's main street grid. The name of this
phenomenon, Manhattanhenge, was coined by
astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson and is a nod to
Stonehenge, the prehistoric monument that was
constructed to align with the sun on the solstices.
This mesmerizing occasion results in a remarkable
sunset that bathes the concrete jungle in a radiant
glow. Typically taking place about three weeks
before the summer solstice and again three weeks
after, experts recommend heading to the Big
Apple's major cross streets downtown, like 14th
Street and Broadway, and facing west towards the
sunset for the best views and photo-ops.
