No Sunrise in This US Town for 64 Days!

The Dark Days of Barrow, Alaska

The Science Behind the Darkness

Barrow, Alaska, is a town located on the northernmost point of the United States. From November to January, the sun doesn't rise above the horizon, leaving the town in complete darkness for 64 days. This phenomenon is due to the Earth's tilt and the town's high latitude. During the winter months, the Earth's axis is tilted away from the sun, and the North Pole is pointed away from the sun. This causes the sun's rays to hit the Earth at a lower angle, and the days become shorter. At Barrow, the sun doesn't rise above the horizon because the angle of the sun's rays is too low to reach the town.

Life in the Darkness

The long nights of Barrow can take a toll on the town's residents. Many people experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that is caused by the lack of sunlight. The darkness can also make it difficult to get around, and some people have to use headlamps to walk or drive at night. Despite the challenges, the people of Barrow have learned to adapt to the long nights. Many businesses close during the winter months, and people spend more time indoors. The town also has a number of festivals and events to help people cope with the darkness.

Light at the End of the Tunnel

The sun finally rises in Barrow on January 22nd, and the town celebrates with a festival called "Sunrise Day." The festival features music, food, and dancing, and it is a time for the community to come together and celebrate the return of the sun. The long nights of Barrow are a unique and challenging experience. However, the people of Barrow have learned to adapt to the darkness, and they find ways to enjoy the winter months.