Can you predict when Manhattanhenge will occur this year?

  • Thread starter BillTre
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In summary, Manhattanhenge is a seasonal event in New York City where the sun aligns with the city's street grid. It occurs twice in the summer and twice in the winter. To predict the dates, one must know the city's latitude and the tilt of the street grid from the cardinal directions, and use the formula sin (DECLINATION) = cos (LATITUDE) sin (AMPLITUDE) to find the sun's declination. This can be compared to an almanac or analemma to accurately predict the four dates.
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BillTre
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Manhattanhenge
Weather permitting and proper location, you might be able to celebrate the alignment of the Cosmos, as the New York City's founders planned in all their ancient wisdom!

Tues., May 29, 8:13 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time
Wed., May 30, 8:12 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time
or
Thurs., July 12, 8:20 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time
Fri., July 13, 8:21 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time
 
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  • #2
The Manhattanhenge events are two summer sunsets and two winter sunrises.
I can look up Manhatten's latitude,
latitude = 41.2° N
and equate the amplitude to the known tilt of the street grid from the cardinal directions,
amplitude = 29°
and using
sin ( DECLINATION ) = cos ( LATITIDE ) sin ( AMPLITUDE ), to find the Sun's declination,
alignment declination = 21.3939° north or south
Compare this to an almanac or an analemma ( find one on image search ) and then predict the 4 dates.
 

What is Manhattanhenge?

Manhattanhenge is an event that occurs twice a year in New York City, where the setting sun aligns perfectly with the east-west streets of Manhattan, creating a stunning visual effect.

When does Manhattanhenge occur?

Manhattanhenge occurs twice a year, usually around May 28th and July 13th. The dates can vary slightly each year, so it's best to check a calendar or website for the exact dates.

Why does Manhattanhenge occur?

Manhattanhenge occurs because of the unique grid layout of Manhattan's streets. The city's grid is rotated 29 degrees east from true east, so when the sun sets on these specific dates, it aligns perfectly with the streets.

Where is the best place to view Manhattanhenge?

The best place to view Manhattanhenge is on the east-west streets of Manhattan, such as 14th, 34th, or 42nd street. These streets offer a clear view of the setting sun between the buildings.

Can Manhattanhenge be seen from anywhere else?

Manhattanhenge can only be seen in Manhattan, but there are similar events that occur in other cities with grid-like layouts, such as Chicago and Toronto. However, the term "Manhattanhenge" specifically refers to the event in New York City.

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