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Imagine living in a place where the Sun sets in mid-November and doesn’t rise again until late January. That’s life in Utqiaġvik, Alaska (formerly known as Barrow), the northernmost town in the United States. For about 66 days, the Sun stays below the horizon, creating an extended period of darkness known as the polar night.
Why Does This Happen?
Utqiaġvik’s long winter night is due to the tilt of the Earth. As the planet orbits the Sun, the North Pole leans away during winter, preventing sunlight from reaching this part of the world. That’s why places within the Arctic Circle, including Utqiaġvik, go for weeks without seeing the Sun. On the flip side, summer brings the Midnight Sun, when the Sun never sets for months at a time.
Is It Completely Dark All the Time?
Not quite. While the Sun doesn’t rise, there are still a few hours of twilight each day. This means the sky has a dim glow, similar to early morning or late evening, but full daylight never arrives. For the rest of the time, it’s true darkness, especially when clouds cover the moon and stars.
How Do People Cope With the Darkness?
Life goes on as usual in Utqiaġvik, but the lack of sunlight can be tough. Many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which can cause fatigue, mood changes, and difficulty staying motivated. To combat this, residents use special lamps that mimic sunlight, stay active, and take part in community events to lift their spirits.
Life in Utqiaġvik During the Polar Night
Utqiaġvik is home to about 4,500 people, including many Iñupiat Eskimos, who have lived here for thousands of years. They rely on traditions like hunting and fishing to sustain themselves, especially since fresh food is expensive due to the town’s remote location.
Temperatures during this time can drop to -40°F (-40°C) or lower, making warm clothing and good insulation essential. The cold, combined with the darkness, means people spend a lot of time indoors, but outdoor activities like snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice fishing are still popular.
The Northern Lights: A Natural Light Show
One of the most magical parts of the polar night is the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. With no sunlight to interfere, the sky often lights up with breathtaking displays of green, blue, and purple waves dancing overhead. It’s one of the biggest attractions of the Arctic and a special reward for those enduring the long winter.
Staying Busy and Keeping Spirits High
Even with weeks of darkness, Utqiaġvik stays active. Schools, businesses, and local organizations continue running as usual. People find ways to stay engaged through social events, traditional celebrations, and winter sports. These activities help keep the community connected and prevent feelings of isolation.
The Return of the Sun
On January 23, the Sun finally returns, though at first, it only stays up for a short time. Over the next few weeks, daylight gradually increases, bringing warmth and energy back to the town. This moment is a cause for celebration, as it marks the beginning of the transition out of the long Arctic night.
