Manhattanhenge, The Manhattan Solstice, Occurs Tuesday Night

By Lawrence Bonk

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Do you remember where you were the last time the sun aligned perfectly with Manhattan's city streets?

In case you missed it, it was last night. And it's happening again Tuesday evening.

Manhattanhenge, otherwise known as the Manhattan Solstice, is a biennial phenomenon in which the sun nestles perfectly between the east-west city streets of Manhattan. If you are in the right place at the right time, the effects can be quite astonishing. Look west and you'll see the sun poking out between the streets, creating a canyon-like scene. Look east, and you'll see rays of the sun bouncing off of every city window. It's just one of those uniquely New York experiences.

Manhattanhenge is once again upon us. Catch glimpses of this big city cosmic wonder  Tuesday at 8:17 p.m.  (It will reoccur July 12th-13th).

Sunset is the name of the game here - you want to catch that sun right before bed. That's when you'll be able to get the best photographs which will no doubt adorn your Facebook profile later that night.

To save you some Googling, you are going to want to get into prime photograph position at around 7:45 each evening.

While Monday night's "show" featured just the half sun sitting on the horizon,  Tuesday's will put the full force of the sun on displey - this may make for great viewing but not-so-great photo opportunities.

Grab yourself a great position on a nice and wide street Tuesday, stare at the slowly dipping sun and ponder the meaning of civilization. Then go get a slice and a beer. You would have earned it. See you in 2013.

When: Tue., May 31st, July 12th-13th, evening
Where: Any east-west Manhattan street