The famous Doomsday Clock has moved closer to midnight than ever before. Scientists have now set it at 85 seconds to midnight, sending a strong warning that humanity is moving dangerously close to a global disaster caused by its own actions.
The announcement was made by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, a group that studies global threats like nuclear weapons, climate change, and new technologies.
What Does 85 Seconds to Midnight Mean?
Midnight on the Doomsday Clock does not represent a real time. Instead, it is a symbol. Midnight means a situation where Earth becomes unsafe for human life due to human-made destruction.
When the clock moves closer to midnight, it means scientists believe the world is becoming more dangerous. At 85 seconds, humanity is now closer to disaster than at any point since the clock was created.
Why Scientists Moved the Clock Forward
Scientists say the main reason is the failure of global leadership. According to them, world powers are not working together to reduce major threats.
Key reasons include:
- Growing risk of nuclear conflict
- Worsening climate change
- Unsafe use of artificial intelligence
- Possible misuse of biotechnology
- Increasing global conflicts and wars
Experts believe these risks are increasing faster than solutions.
Nuclear Weapons Remain the Biggest Danger
Nuclear weapons are still considered the most immediate threat. Tensions between powerful countries continue to rise, and dialogue to reduce nuclear arms has slowed.
Scientists warn that even a small nuclear conflict could cause massive damage to the planet, including long-term environmental effects.
Climate Change Adds to the Global Threat
Climate change is no longer a future problem. Extreme weather, rising sea levels, and food shortages are already affecting millions.
The scientists say governments are moving too slowly toward renewable energy and are still heavily dependent on fossil fuels.
Artificial Intelligence and Bio Threats Raise New Concerns
Apart from traditional dangers, scientists are now worried about new technologies.
Artificial intelligence, if used without rules, could increase military risks. Biotechnology, if misused, could create dangerous biological threats.
Experts say strong global rules are urgently needed to control these technologies.
What Is the Doomsday Clock?
The Doomsday Clock was created in 1947, after the invention of nuclear weapons. It was designed to warn the public about how close humanity is to destroying itself.
The clock is updated every year based on scientific research and global developments. It can move forward or backward depending on whether the world becomes safer or more dangerous.
How Is the Time Decided Each Year?
A special group of experts called the Science and Security Board decides the clock’s time.
They study:
- Global security
- Nuclear risks
- Climate progress
- Technological threats
They ask two main questions:
- Is the world safer than last year?
- Is the world safer than it was decades ago?
Based on this, they decide whether to move the clock.
Past Clock Timings Show a Worrying Trend
In recent years, the clock has stayed dangerously close to midnight.
- 2023: 90 seconds
- 2024: 90 seconds
- 2025: 89 seconds
- 2026: 85 seconds
This shows that global risks are increasing, not decreasing.
When Was the World Safest According to the Clock?
The clock was farthest from midnight in 1991, set at 17 minutes before midnight. This was after the Cold War ended and nuclear tensions reduced.
Scientists say that cooperation between countries made the world safer at that time.
Can the Clock Be Moved Back?
Yes. Scientists believe it is possible if world leaders take serious action.
Key steps include:
- Reducing nuclear weapons
- Fighting climate change seriously
- Regulating AI and biotechnology
- Improving international cooperation
The clock is a warning, not a prediction.
Conclusion
The Doomsday Clock moving to 85 seconds before midnight is a serious message for humanity. Scientists are warning that global risks are growing faster than solutions.
While the situation is alarming, experts believe it is not too late. Strong leadership, cooperation, and responsible use of technology can still move the clock back and make the world safer for future generations.
FAQs
What is the Doomsday Clock?
It is a symbolic clock that shows how close humanity is to a global disaster caused by human actions.
Who controls the Doomsday Clock?
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, with advice from global experts.
Why is the clock so close to midnight now?
Because of rising nuclear risks, climate change, wars, and unsafe technologies.
Does midnight mean the world will end?
No. Midnight is symbolic and represents extreme danger, not a guaranteed event.
Can the clock move backward?
Yes, if global risks reduce and countries work together.