Manhattanhenge, a Buck Moon, and Dueling Meteor Showers to Light Up the July Sky

The July astronomical calendar will start with a sparse spattering of offerings before picking up by the end of the month, culminating with a pair of meteor showers. From a full moon to a viral sunset to the dueling meteor showers, here is what you need to put on your calendar in the weeks ahead.

Manhattanhenge: July 11 and 12

While not an official astronomical event, the viral sensation known as "Manhattanhenge" will unfold in New York City for the second and last time this year in July. This event takes place at the precise moment that the setting sun at the end of the day lines up with the street grid in Manhattan, creating the viral phenomenon known to many New Yorkers as Manhattanhenge.

The alignment first happened this year at the end of May. Those who missed it the first time around will get another chance to catch the view on the nights of July 11 and July 12. There are a variety of spots around the city to catch the view, specifically on 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th Streets. Experts advise you to station yourself as far east as possible, as long as you maintain a clear view while looking to the west toward New Jersey. Popular places to see the sunset include the Tudor City Overpass in East Midtown and Hunter's Point South Park in Long Island City, Queens.

You will want to arrive at your viewing spot at least 30 to 45 minutes before the listed sunset time in order to stake your claim on the sidewalk. Keep in mind that you will need cloud-free conditions to get the full effect. The best bet will be to check the local forecast for both nights and choose the evening with the least volume of predicted clouds.

View the Milky Way: Mid-July

The Milky Way shines, both literally and figuratively, during the month of July. This is because the nighttime side of planet Earth faces directly toward the center of the galaxy at this time of the year. This position naturally provides better views of the galaxy compared to other months.

In addition to needing clear skies, you will also increase the chances of catching the Milky Way in all of its glory if you seek out dark conditions. This means traveling away from light pollution that may obstruct the view.

The best time of July for prime viewing will be in the days surrounding the new moon on July 14. A new moon means that there will be no light from the moon diminishing the lights of the Milky Way.

Buck Moon: July 29

The full Buck Moon will rise on the night of July 29. This full moon gets its name from the timing happening during the time of the year when deer are growing their antlers in advance of the fall rut. Another moniker for the July full moon is the Thunder Moon, signifying the prevalence of thunderstorms during the peak summer season.

Dueling meteor showers: July 30-31

Just one night after catching the July full moon, be sure to step outside at night to see the first meteor showers of the season. The end of July features a pair of meteor showers that are expected to peak on the same night, streaking across the sky on July 30 and into the early morning hours of July 31.

The Southern Delta Aquariids and the Capriocornids will peak at the same time, combining to deliver up to 30 meteors per hour. Unfortunately, the timing of the full moon just one night prior means that there will be a good deal of natural light pollution that will dim all but the brightest shooting stars.

If you miss the show put on by the Southern Delta Aquariids and the Capriocornids in July, another major meteor shower is set to peak during the middle of August when the Perseids streak by. This show is expected to usher in much better viewing conditions this year due to the timing of the moon cycle.

July is one of the best months of the year to check out the night skies. What you lose in nighttime hours, you gain in moderate overnight temperatures that make it more comfortable to get outside and check out what is unfolding in the skies above you after the sun goes down.

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