Discussion on Global Cooling and Conflicts
In a recent development, the World Meteorological Organization has verified two new world records for extreme megaflashes of lightning, as reported by The Watchers [vii]. Meanwhile, the scientific community continues to explore the relationship between solar cycles 24 and 25, global cooling, and Antarctic temperature changes.
Solar cycle 24, marked by relatively lower sunspot activity compared to past strong cycles, began in 2008 and was followed by solar cycle 25, which started in December 2019. Initially, both cycles were predicted to be of similar strength, indicating continued relatively weak solar activity compared to historical averages. However, early observations suggest that solar activity in cycle 25 is exceeding initial predictions, pointing towards a stronger progression than expected for a "weak" cycle [1][3][5].
Despite the weaker but variable solar activity patterns, there is no credible scientific evidence to support a direct link between these solar cycles and a new period of global cooling. Modern climate science attributes recent temperature changes primarily to human activities rather than solar variability [2].
Intriguingly, there is evidence of a strong linear correlation between Antarctic temperature changes and solar-related ozone loss, with a correlation coefficient of 0.82 observed [4]. This suggests that solar-driven factors can impact Antarctic climate elements such as ozone concentration, which in turn can influence local temperature. However, this correlation pertains more directly to ozone-related atmospheric chemistry modulated by solar cycles and cosmic rays than to a direct, global-scale temperature cooling triggered by solar cycle variation.
Recent temperature data from Antarctica has been quite striking. Last October, CNN published a piece titled "Antarctica's last 6 months were the coldest on record" [6]. More recently, the average temperatures from April to September, the continent's winter months, fell all the way down to 78 degrees below zero Fahrenheit at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station [9]. On April 14, 2022, the world's lowest temperature was recorded at Vostok Station, Antarctica, reaching 106.2 degrees Fahrenheit [6].
These cold spells in Antarctica, however, should not be mistaken for a global cooling trend linked to solar cycles 24 and 25. The overarching influence of greenhouse gases remains the dominant factor shaping 21st-century global and Antarctic climate trends.
As for the connection between solar activity and historical events, Plato's works, specifically Timaeus, include a story about an Egyptian priest who spoke of repeated destructions of humanity, some caused by fire and water [8]. This story also includes a myth about Phaethon, the son of Helios, who burned up all that was upon the earth with his father's chariot. Some interpretations suggest that the old Egyptian was referring to a "micronova" event [10].
While the connection between solar activity and historical events remains a topic of debate, the current focus for scientists lies in understanding the complex interplay between solar cycles, climate change, and regional weather patterns. As our understanding evolves, we may gain new insights into the role of solar activity in shaping our world.
- Despite the ongoing exploration of solar cycles 24 and 25, there is no substantial scientific proof linking these cycles to a new era of global cooling, as contemporary climate science predominantly attributes recent temperature changes to human activities.
- Concurrently, in the realm of political news and general discussions, speculations about the potential influence of solar cycles on historical events, such as the story of Phaethon and Helios in Plato's Timaeus, continue to spark debates.
- Meanwhile, the environmental-science community is diligently investigating the correlation between Antarctic temperature changes and solar-related ozone loss, with the aim of understanding the complex relationships between solar cycles, climate change, and regional weather patterns.
- China's political landscape is also closely watching developments in space-and-astronomy, seeking to harness the knowledge gained from these studies to address potential environmental-science and crime-and-justice issues, such as climate change and ozone depletion.
- As the scientific community continues to delve into the intricacies of solar cycles and their impact on our world, it is imperative to remain vigilant about the emerging linkages between these cycles, medical-conditions, and other aspects of our lives, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic understanding of our ever-evolving planet.
