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‘170,000 square miles lit’: NASA spots mysterious Arctic lights that could spell danger for us

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

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Arctic Glow

NASA has detected mysterious artificial light in the Arctic, signaling human activity and its devastating impact on one of Earth’s most fragile regions.

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Industrial Impact

Drilling and mining activities are increasing Arctic illumination, melting ice, and opening up previously inaccessible regions, NASA researchers found.

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Russian Surge

Artificial lighting in the Russian Arctic grew by 170,000 square miles—larger than California—due to oil fields like Samotlor, according to NASA data.

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Resource Boom

By 2013, oil and gas development zones covered 131,000 square miles in the Russian Arctic, equivalent to the size of Germany, driven by unchecked industrial growth.

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Global Threat

Industrial activity in the Arctic accelerates global warming, releasing pollutants, greenhouse gases, and methane from thawing permafrost, NASA’s study warns.

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Fragile Balance

Arctic degradation has global consequences, including rising sea levels and severe weather, emphasizing the need for sustainable industrial practices.

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Satellite Findings

NASA’s Defence Meteorological Satellite Program revealed a 5% yearly increase in Arctic lighting between 1992 and 2013, highlighting unchecked growth.

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Environmental Call

NASA scientist Zhuosen Wang stressed the urgency of halting industrial practices that threaten Arctic ecosystems and accelerate climate change.

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Global Responsibility

Deputy director Miguel Román emphasized real-time monitoring to guide responsible resource management and protect vital ecosystems from further harm.