[SamAdams76]

There is some historical data backing up this theory. During the 1650-1725 period, we had some very cold winters which occurred during the "Maunder Minimum." Then we have the "Dalton Minimum" during about the 1790-1830 period described in this press release in which there were also very cold winters.

[dr_who_2]

Well, it would be interesting to see if anyone has seen any trends in all the different forms of radiation from the sun, though obviously you can’t get it over a time span that large. Indirect evidence of solar activity (including sun spots) from 6000 years ago sounds just a little implausible.

[Robert A Cook PE]

Beautiful graphic!

Xcamel: We should add it to your list of references.

[Old Professer]

Odd, last year saw a .7 degree drop and had about 50 total numbered sunspots; so far this year, we have had 15 and we have predictions of total Arctic ice melt by September and a way above average hurricane season.