What's the rare reverse Manhattanhenge occurring in NYC on Thursday
New York City's early birds are in for a unique experience this Thursday morning, as the rare "reverse" Manhattanhenge will transform city streets into a stunning corridor of sunlight. Unlike the well-known Manhattanhenge that occurs during late summer and spring evenings, this lesser-known phenomenon rises from the east and lasts for a much shorter time, as per the annual American periodical Farmers' Almanac.
What is Manhattanhenge?
Manhattanhenge is a term that is popularized by well-known astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. It's a reference to England's ancient Stonehenge, which was built to frame the dawn and sunset of the summer and winter solstices, respectively. Manhattanhenge occurs as a result of Manhattan's east-west and north-south street grid pattern. The phenomenon occurs when the setting sun perfectly aligns with Manhattan's grid-patterned streets. It occurs twice a year with a full sunset and twice a year with a half sunset.
The reverse Manhattanhenge phenomenon
The alignment of the majority of Manhattan's east-west streets is roughly 29° clockwise from true east-west. Thus, when the azimuth for sunset is 29° northward of due west, which occurs twice a year, a few weeks before and after the summer solstice, the setting sun lines up with the east-west streets at that same moment as it approaches the horizon. Reverse Manhattanhenge is the "winter edition" of the occurrence that takes over the sky during sunrise hours.
Where to view it?
The sun is predicted to rise at 7:11 am on Thursday, making it the perfect time to catch a glimpse of the reverse Manhattanhenge at street level. The Farmers' Almanac suggests that the intersection of 41st Street and 5th Avenue is the prime spot to witness this natural wonder. Additionally, areas around the Weehawken waterfront opposite 41st Street in New Jersey across the Hudson River, may also offer great views.
Upcoming full Manhattanhenge dates
For those looking forward to the main event this spring and summer, half-sun Manhattanhenge will take place on May 29 at 8:13 pm and July 12 at 8:21 pm, while full ones are set for May 30 at 8:12 p.m. and July 11 at 8:20 p.m. NYC Parks advises arriving early at popular viewing locations such as 57th Street, 42nd Street, 34th Street, 23rd Street, 14th Street, Tudor City Overpass in Manhattan, and Hunter's Point South Park in Queens.
