China's Dam Impacts Earth's Rotation: NASA Study

China’s Giant Dam Is Slowing Earth’s Rotation, Says NASA

A Stunning Revelation on the Power of Human Engineering

In a surprising discovery, NASA scientists have confirmed that China’s massive Three Gorges Dam is having a small, but measurable effect on Earth’s rotation.

Yes, you read that right. The dam is not only producing electricity—it’s also slightly slowing down the planet’s spin.

How Is That Possible?

The Three Gorges Dam holds an enormous amount of water—about 40 cubic kilometers, or 10 trillion gallons.

When this water is stored, it redistributes Earth’s mass. Just like a skater spinning with arms stretched out, this added mass causes the Earth to rotate a little slower.

According to NASA geophysicist Dr. Benjamin Fong Chao, this shift has lengthened the day by about 0.06 microseconds and moved the Earth’s axis by 2 centimeters.

Why Does It Matter?

At first, this change might seem too small to worry about. But it matters. First, it shows that human-made structures can affect the entire planet. Then, it opens up new questions about the long-term impact of other mega-projects. Finally, it reminds us how closely everything on Earth is connected.

Dam That Powers Millions

The Three Gorges Dam is the world’s largest hydroelectric project. It provides around 3% of China’s electricity and is a symbol of technological power.

However, such engineering marvels can also have unexpected side effects—not just on people or rivers, but on the planet itself.

What Should We Learn?

This isn’t about fear. It’s about understanding. As countries, including India, continue building large dams and infrastructure, we must also study their broader effects on Earth.

After all, science helps us not just build, but build wisely.