Preexisting research into bugs circling lights was mainly to see what properties of the lights attracted the bugs, which is how we know that certain LED lights can prevent the bugs from flying towards it.
This study, however, showed that the bugs aren’t trying to get to the light at all. The light triggers their dorsal reflex, causing them to recalibrate their sense of direction to keep the light at a fixed angle from their perspective. The bugs think they are going in a straight line, forever, and they never get to where they are going.
I found out about how bad outdoor lights are for bugs about a year ago. I try to only have my outside lights on when I’m actively using them. Strongly recommended every one who can to do the same.