A scientific paper published in 1960 identified November 13, 2026, as the date when the world’s population could reach an impossible mathematical limit if its growth continued unchecked.

The paper, titled Doomsday: Friday, 13 November, A.D. 2026, was written by physicist Heinz von Foerster and his colleagues at the University of Illinois. Published in the journal Science, it examined historical population growth and projected what could happen if the trend continued to accelerate.

The researchers’ calculations suggested that the global population would approach infinity on the specified date. The unusual conclusion earned the paper its dramatic title, which has resurfaced online as November 2026 approaches.

However, the study did not claim that a disaster would destroy Earth on November 13. Instead, it used a mathematical model to highlight the potential consequences of unchecked population growth.

What Did the 1960 Study Actually Predict?

The researchers based their projection on historical data showing an accelerating increase in the world’s population. Their calculations extended that trend into the future, eventually producing a theoretical point at which the population would become mathematically infinite.

Such a scenario is not physically possible. The date was the result of extending the model’s assumptions, rather than identifying an actual event that would end human life.

The study raised concerns about the long-term consequences of rapid population growth, including pressure on resources and the ability of societies to support growing numbers of people.

Since then, population patterns have changed, with birth rates falling across many countries. These changes have made the original model’s assumption of continuously accelerating growth increasingly unrealistic.

Will the World Really End in 2026?

Current population projections do not support the idea that humanity faces a doomsday deadline in November.

The United Nations projects that the global population will reach approximately 10.3 billion in the mid-2080s before declining gradually. This outlook is far removed from the unlimited growth envisioned in the 1960 paper.

Population growth and the pressure it places on resources remain significant global challenges. However, these issues do not establish that the world is approaching a sudden end.

The November 13, 2026, date is attracting attention because of the paper’s striking title and mathematical projection. It should not be interpreted as a verified prediction of an apocalypse.

No credible scientific evidence indicates that Earth or humanity will end on that date.