On September 22, 2024, Chicagoans will witness a celestial event that transforms the city into a modern-day Stonehenge, an occurrence known as Chicagohenge. As the autumn equinox arrives, the setting sun will align perfectly with the city’s east-west street grid, casting a magical moment of symmetry and unity between the urban landscape and the cosmos.
The Phenomenon Explained
The equinox is a momentous time when the Earth’s axis is tilted neither toward nor away from the sun, resulting in nearly equal day and night lengths across the globe. During this period, the sun sets precisely in the west, creating a unique opportunity for cities with east-west aligned street grids to experience a solar alignment phenomenon. Chicago, with its well-planned street layout, is one such city.
Anthony Artese, the astrophotographer who captured the stunning image of Chicagohenge in 2017, explains that the event is akin to a modern-day Stonehenge. Just as the ancient monument aligns with the sun during the solstices, Chicago’s grid aligns with the setting sun during the equinoxes. This alignment creates a visually striking experience, where the sun appears to set directly down the city’s streets and alleys.
The City’s Unique Layout
Chicago’s grid system, established in the 19th century, was meticulously planned to run east-west and north-south. This design ensures that the city’s streets are in harmony with the Earth’s natural spin axis. The alignment is so precise that on the equinox, the sun’s descent is framed by the city’s towering skyscrapers and sprawling streets, offering a spectacle that is both beautiful and scientifically intriguing.
The event is not unique to Chicago, however. Many cities around the world have street layouts that align with the Earth’s axis, and similar phenomena can be observed in places like Manhattan, where Manhattanhenge occurs twice a year.
A Community Experience
Chicagohenge is more than just a visual marvel; it is a community experience that brings people together to witness the beauty of the natural world. As the sun begins to set, residents and visitors gather along Upper Wacker Drive and other vantage points to watch the celestial show. The phenomenon has gained popularity on social media, with the hashtag #chicagohenge trending each equinox.
Seeing the sun align perfectly with the city’s streets is a humbling reminder of our place in the universe, says local astronomer Dr. Emily Thompson. It’s a moment that connects us to the ancient practices of tracking the sun’s movements and understanding the cycles of the Earth.
The Role of Astronomy
The Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) feature on September 22, 2024, will highlight Chicagohenge, bringing attention to the event’s scientific and cultural significance. The APOD, curated by professional astronomers Robert Nemiroff and Jerry Bonnell, showcases a different image of the cosmos each day, accompanied by an explanation that delves into the science behind the image.
The Chicagohenge event serves as an educational opportunity, encouraging people to look up and appreciate the wonders of the night sky. It also highlights the importance of urban planning and the role of astronomy in understanding our environment.
Conclusion
As Chicagohenge approaches, the city prepares to embrace its celestial connection. This natural phenomenon not only offers a breathtaking visual experience but also fosters a sense of community and curiosity about the universe. Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or a visitor, Chicagohenge is a reminder of the beauty and harmony that can be found when urban planning meets the natural world.
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