The first time I noticed it, I didn’t know it had a name–but I stopped in the middle of the street to take a photo with my iPhone before almost being hit by oncoming traffic. I’ve since learned that it is called Manhattanhenge (so named by 2000′s “sexiest astrophysicist alive,” Ashley tells me) and it occurs two times a year when the setting sun aligns with the east-west grid on which the New York streets run.
I was excited that this year because I actually knew about it in advance and had planned to take some photos: The perfect alignment came on Sunday, while we were away; and yesterday–the second (almost perfect) chance–the weather had different plans, and clouds hid the solar event.These images are from others who caught the semi-annual occurrence at other times.
I told Ashley, however, that we didn’t have to wait until next year, and that the same phenomenon will happen November 30 and January 10 at sunrise. She assured me that only I will be up for that one.
(Photos: Wei Lou via here, jwannie, and Idle Type)
{ 32 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks for sharing those pictures, Aron. I hope next time the Manhattanhenge occures you will get your very own amazing pictures.
Wow. I need to see that one day.
Incredible. That is one of those 'things' few experience about but we all envy from afar! (Another item to add to my love affair with NY! I will live there one day!)
Very neat. I had no idea, thanks for sharing.
beautiful!
Incredible. I live in Manhattan. Had no idea. Thanks for sharing!
How cool – I have never heard of Manhattanage but I see that it is pretty awesome.
My favorite image was the first one. very cool!
How wonderful! What a romantic sunrise that will be.
So awesome!
beautiful!! i would love to see such a phenomenon!
yeap, last month when i was in NYC i took some photos off the Etnies Showroom rooftop of Manhattanhege… cool huh?
gorgeous pictures. Just came across your blog and it's great!
What wonderful photos and how lucky to be around to see that.
I'm a Manhattanite + I've never seen this before! So, so beautiful. Thanks for posting, darling!
this is so cool! maybe tempt ashley with some breakfast after sunrise at a favorite place? probably in november since its much warmer than january!!!
You're so cute, Yumi! Maybe that would work…
So cool! I've never heard of that before. Brilliant!
That is beautiful! Very cool & definitely something to look forward to in November!
incredible!
How cool is that???????????
xxx
http://gypsy-diaries.blogspot.com/
Love that someone figured that out. And shocked that those photos are from your iphone! They're incredible.
ok, yes. on second read, i realize they're not from your iphone. i was about ready to drop my slr and sprint to the at&t store.
Those pictures are amazing! I lived in New york for two years and never heard about Manhattanhenge. So lovely!
Wow! I've got to stay tuned for next time.
These are beautiful! I won't be up that early, but more power to ya!!
http://ladulcivida.blogspot.com/
One day may be millions years away someone will be analyzing us and saying what intelligent creatures we were, and trying to figure out the purpose of this and that, lol, just like a Stonehenge. Thanks for the info, if I ever visit I ensure to align my days. Anna
Anna–you'd love the commentary that astrophysicist wrote. Click on the link tied to "so named." You and he are seeing eye to eye.
this is amazing
that is simply stunning – what an incredible sight to see in the big city
Aron, I guarantee that Ed will join you for those sunrise shots! He was gutted that Monday's weather didn't cooperate and we also were out of town on Sunday night.
fantastic!