From 1645 to 1715, the deepest freeze, "there is believed to have been a decrease in the total energy output from the sun, as indicated by little or no sunspot activity." This lack of sunspots is called the Maunder Minimum, when astronomers "observed only about 50 sunspots for a 30-year period." Three decades usually see 40,000 to 50,000 sunspots, it adds. More sunspots are associated with a greater heat output from the sun; fewer seem to be tied to less heat.
I found this interesting, I was unaware that sun spot activity was monitored in the 1600's. When were solar filters developed? Any thoughts? Good article Joe. I believe that solar activity is the primary driver of
global warming and cooling. I hope we don't go into another mini Ice Age and there is some reason for optimism as the solar scientists suggest.
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Joe Bauman Sent: Sunday, March 01, 2009 9:46 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] Global cooling?
Hi friends, Keep up with the latest climate shifts:
http://deseretnews.com/blogs/1,5322,10000034,00.html?bD=20090301
-- Thanks, Joe
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