Full Moon Triggers Global Sleep Disruption, Study Confirms
LONDON — A new study published in the journal Science Advances has confirmed that the full moon significantly disrupts human sleep patterns worldwide, with participants taking an average of 30 minutes longer to fall asleep and experiencing 20 minutes less total sleep during lunar phases. Researchers from the University of Washington analyzed data from over 10,000 individuals across 68 countries, using sleep-tracking devices over a 24-month period. The phenomenon, attributed to the moon's enhanced nocturnal brightness and its evolutionary impact on human circadian rhythms, was most pronounced in urban areas with limited artificial light. Public health officials urged individuals to adopt blackout curtains during full moon cycles, while astrologers noted cultural fascination with the lunar event continues to grow. The findings were peer-reviewed and released at 0800 GMT Wednesday.