Why New York’s ‘Manhattanhenge Effect’ Actually Lasts 44 Days

InnovationScienceWhy New York’s ‘Manhattanhenge Effect’ Actually Lasts 44 DaysByJamie Carter,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. An award-winning reporter writing about stargazing and the night sky.Follow AuthorMay 29, 2026, 02:45am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.People stand in the middle of 42nd Street in Times Square for the first Manhattanhenge of 2026 in New York City, on May 28, 2026. "Manhattanhenge," coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, is a phenomenon where the sun perfectly aligns with Manhattan's street grid, allowing it to be seen directly between the city's skyscrapers. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty ImagesThe so-called “Manhattanhenge” may be grabbing headlines across New York City on Thursday and Friday this week, but the famous sunset alignment is not really a two-night event.Although the precise moment when the sun appears perfectly framed by Manhattan’s grid happens on only four evenings each year, the broader “Manhattanhenge Effect” lasts for about 44 days — creating weeks of spectacular sunsets between the city’s skyscrapers.The phenomenon begins with this weekend’s first Manhattanhenge sunsets and continues through July 12, when the final alignment of the summer occurs.What Happens During Manhattanhenge?Manhattanhenge occurs when the setting sun aligns exactly with Manhattan’s east-west streets, creating dramatic sunset views framed by rows of skyscrapers.In 2026, the first event took place on Thursday, May 28 at 8:14 p.m. EDT (“half sun on the grid”) and the second will take place on Friday, May 29 at 8:13 p.m. EDT (“full sun on the grid”).The “half sun” event is when the sun “kisses the grid,” with only the upper half of the solar disk visible above the horizon. The following evening, the entire disk appears suspended between buildings just...