Manhattan Henge is making its return at the end of this month in New York City, a much-anticipated phenomenon.
This yearly event occurs on two nights in May and two in July, where the setting sun aligns perfectly with the city’s grid, creating stunning visuals for New Yorkers.
“If you’re outdoors at sunset, you’ll definitely want to catch it,” Dr. Jackie Faherty, an astronomer at the American Museum of Natural History, mentioned recently.
“I like to call it ‘face astronomy’; the sun beams down the grid of Manhattan,” she added.
“It’s an astronomy lesson paired with a beautiful sunset in one of the world’s largest cities,” Faherty said.
What is Manhattan Henge?
This phenomenon, often referred to as Golden Crosstown, happens around summer when the sun sets at just the right angle to align with Manhattan’s streets.
Dr. Faherty describes the so-called “Manhattan Henge Effect,” which occurs between May 28 and July 12, where the four sunsets this year create an alignment unlike the usual. However, alignment doesn’t entirely mean perfection with the grid.
What are the dates for Manhattan Henge 2025?
The “half-Sun” view, partly obscured by buildings, can be seen at 8:13 PM on Wednesday, May 28, and at 8:22 PM on Saturday, July 12, according to Faherty.
The “full Sun” will appear at 8:12 PM on Thursday, May 29, and at 8:20 PM on Friday, July 11.
Faherty advises people to arrive 30 to 40 minutes early to ensure they have a good view and to experience the gradual light changes leading up to the event.
“The light enhances the spectacle, making it a longer experience,” she explained. “There are predictors for that.”
Best Manhattan Henge Viewing Spots
Ideal viewing locations, as suggested by Faherty, include 14th Avenue, 23rd Avenue, 34th Street, 42nd Street, 57th Street, and the Tudor City Overpass.
Hunter Point South Park in Long Island City, Queens, and Gantry State Park are also excellent spots as long as you can see towards New Jersey, and any spot in the outer boroughs works too.
Midtown’s 42nd Street is often packed, with people flocking to see Manhattan Henge, which could cause crowds to swell rapidly.
“The street might be quite congested. You almost have to step into the street to really see it, but then there are cars, which can be a bit of an impediment,” Faherty noted.
How unique are “henges” in urban settings?
Manhattan’s layout provides a unique opportunity to view what is often referred to as “henge,” with its unobstructed views of the sun making for memorable experiences.
“In other cities, maybe only a couple of streets allow for similar views,” she mentioned. “But Manhattan’s entire grid opens up so many possibilities for observing this phenomenon.”
Beyond the beautiful sunsets, this season also has other astronomical events lined up, including the ETA Aquariids meteor shower on May 5th and 6th, the ETA Lyrids on May 8th, and the Perseids in August.
Still, experts believe that Manhattan Henge remains a highlight. The museum also celebrates this public event in July.
“Manhattan Henge truly connects everyone in the city,” she said. “It’s a fantastic unifying experience.”
