Noordpoolcirkel

The Noordpoolcirkel, or Arctic Circle, is an imaginary line located at approximately 66°33′ North latitude. It marks the southernmost boundary within the Arctic region where the midnight sun can be observed during the summer solstice and polar night during the winter solstice. The Arctic Circle serves as a significant geographical marker, separating the Arctic tundra and ice-covered areas from the more temperate regions to the south.

This circle passes through several countries, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, the United States (Alaska), Canada, Denmark (Greenland), and Iceland. The precise position of the Arctic Circle shifts slightly over time due to Earth's axial tilt variations, typically moving a few meters annually.

The area within the Arctic Circle is characterized by extreme seasonal variations in daylight and temperature. Summers feature continuous daylight for several weeks, while winters can be marked by continuous darkness. The region is home to unique ecosystems, indigenous peoples, and diverse wildlife, including polar bears, Arctic foxes, and reindeer.

The Arctic Circle holds cultural and geopolitical significance, influencing climate research, natural resource exploration, and international cooperation. Climate change has led to rapid ice melt in the region, impacting global sea levels and weather patterns. As a result, the Arctic Circle is increasingly relevant in discussions about environmental sustainability, sovereignty, and sustainable development.

The definition and location of the Arctic Circle are standard across geographic references, making it an important boundary for scientific, navigational, and ecological studies. It remains a symbol of the Earth's polar regions and a focus of ongoing environmental and geopolitical concerns.