No sunlight for 65 days. That's what's coming to one Alaska town. from

Darkness Descends: Alaska Town to Experience 65 Days of Winter Night

An Arctic Eclipse

Utqiagvik, Alaska, a remote town located 330 miles above the Arctic Circle, prepares for an extended period of darkness known as the polar night. From November 18th to January 23rd, the sun will dip below the horizon, casting the town into an uninterrupted blanket of darkness for 65 grueling days.

The Science Behind the Polar Night

The Earth's tilt on its axis causes the poles to experience extreme seasonal variations. During winter, the North Pole tilts away from the sun, resulting in a period of continuous night. As the Earth rotates, different parts of the Arctic Circle experience varying durations of polar night. Utqiagvik's high latitude places it within the region that endures the longest stretch of darkness.

Life in Perpetual Darkness

For the residents of Utqiagvik, the polar night poses unique challenges. The absence of sunlight can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to sleep disturbances and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). To combat these effects, residents often rely on artificial light sources to simulate daylight. Despite the challenges, the polar night also offers opportunities for awe-inspiring celestial events. Aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, are more frequent and vibrant during this time due to increased geomagnetic activity in the dark skies.

Preparing for the Cosmic Blackout

In anticipation of the polar night, residents of Utqiagvik take proactive measures to ensure their well-being. They stock up on supplies, maintain generators for power backups, and plan social gatherings to maintain a sense of community during the long stretch of darkness. For tourists, experiencing the polar night can be a surreal and unforgettable adventure. However, it is crucial to prepare adequately for extreme cold and darkness by bringing warm clothing, headlamps, and plenty of entertainment.

Embracing the Winter Darkness

The polar night may seem like a daunting prospect, but the people of Utqiagvik have learned to adapt and even embrace this unique natural phenomenon. They organize community events, celebrate cultural traditions, and find joy in the solitude and wonder of the long Arctic night. Ultimately, the polar night serves as a reminder of the Earth's astronomical rhythms and the resilience of the human spirit. It is an extraordinary time when darkness reigns, but it also brings a sense of awe and a profound appreciation for the return of the sun.