In May, New Yorkers will witness a unique astronomical show – Manhattanhenge. This phenomenon occurs when the rays of the rising or setting sun are perfectly aligned with the city’s grid of streets. This phenomenon, as well as a number of other celestial events, will make for an unforgettable month for stargazing enthusiasts.
Manhattanhenge: The Sun in the arms of skyscrapers
On May 28 and 29 at 8:15 p.m., the setting sun will create a spectacular effect, illuminating the canyons of Manhattan. The rays will penetrate between the high-rise buildings, creating a picturesque scene. The last day of Manhattanhenge is July 12, but the effect will partially persist on the dates in between.
“These are the best sunsets of the year,” notes astrophysicist Jackie Faherty of the American Museum of Natural History. She advises holding observation seats no later than 7:30 p.m. The best spots are the intersection at 42nd and 72nd Streets, the Tudor City Overpass, and the waterfronts of Hunters Point in Queens and Gantry Plaza Park.
Origin of the term
The term Manhattanhenge, similar to Stonehenge, was proposed by scientist Neil Tyson in 2002. The Manhattanhenge phenomenon is observed in parallel streets planned according to the Manhattan Master Plan. These streets intersect at right angles with the avenues, which are 29° to the meridians.
The phenomenon occurs on May 28 or 29 and July 12 or 13 during sunset, and around December 5 and January 8 at dawn.
International Space Station
Every night until May 13, the International Space Station (ISS) will fly over New York City, visible to the naked eye as a bright moving dot. It resembles an airplane, but moves faster and has no flashing lights.
Also according to the NASA Spot the Station tracker, it can be seen that the ISS will be visible over Kyiv between May 4 and May 17. The service provides a schedule according to which you can accurately identify its position in the sky and the angle of inclination above the horizon. Observations will last from 1 to 7 minutes.
Manhattanhenge and other celestial phenomena in May are not only a colorful sight, but also an opportunity to feel connected to the cosmos.
Earlier we reported on how a mysterious object flew near the Statue of Liberty in New York.
According to gothamist.com
