The Polar Night in Utqiagvik, Alaska

What is the Polar Night?

Every year, from late November to late January, the sun dips below the horizon in Utqiagvik, Alaska, and doesn't rise fully above it again until mid-winter. This period of darkness is called the polar night.

The polar night is caused by the Earth's tilt on its axis. During the winter months, the North Pole is tilted away from the sun, and Utqiagvik is plunged into darkness.

What is Life Like During the Polar Night?

The incessant darkness can take a toll on the people of Utqiagvik. Many experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that is triggered by the lack of sunlight.

However, the polar night also has its own unique beauty. The darkness creates a sense of stillness and peace, and the stars and moon are incredibly visible.

How do the People of Utqiagvik Cope with the Polar Night?

The people of Utqiagvik have developed a number of ways to cope with the polar night. They rely on artificial light to keep their homes and workplaces illuminated, and they spend as much time outdoors as possible during the short periods of daylight.

During the polar night, the community of Utqiagvik comes together to support one another and to celebrate the beauty of the Arctic winter.

Conclusion

The polar night is a difficult period for the people of Utqiagvik, Alaska, but it is also a time of unique beauty and challenges. The people of Utqiagvik have found ways to adapt to the darkness and to find peace and beauty in it.