- #1
- 8,252
- 2,664
Astronomers unravel a mystery of the Dark Ages
- Context: Undergrad
- Thread starter Ivan Seeking
- Start date
-
- Tags
- Mystery
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the potential causes of climate anomalies during the 6th century, specifically the hypothesis that a comet impact led to crop failures and cold summers, akin to a nuclear winter. Participants explore historical records and scientific interpretations related to this period, including comparisons to volcanic activity.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Historical
Main Points Raised
- Some participants reference research from Cardiff University suggesting that a comet impact caused significant climate changes around 536-540 AD, leading to crop failures.
- Others note that the initial hypothesis for these climate anomalies was volcanic activity, indicating a shift in scientific understanding.
- One participant speculates about the existence of historical records from the time, suggesting that European monks or records from the Tang dynasty in Asia might provide additional evidence of the events described.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the cause of the climate anomalies, with some supporting the comet hypothesis and others referencing the volcanic theory. The discussion remains unresolved regarding which explanation is more valid.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations regarding the availability and reliability of historical records that could confirm the events discussed. The discussion also highlights the dependence on interpretations of scientific evidence and historical documentation.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be of interest to those studying climate history, astronomy, geology, and the impact of historical events on society.
- #2
theurinal
- 8
- 0
Hey, Cool.
amaxing what our tech and research can find out.
amaxing what our tech and research can find out.
- #3
the_truth
- 148
- 0
They originally thought it was a volcanoe.
Astronomers 1
Geologists 0
Astronomers 1
Geologists 0
- #4
russ_watters
Mentor
- 23,876
- 11,345
Hmm. Astronomers think it was a comet, geologists think it was a volcano - go figure.Originally posted by the_truth
They originally thought it was a volcanoe.
Astronomers 1
Geologists 0
- #5
the_truth
- 148
- 0
ok then, for being wrong the geologists lose a point.
- #6
franznietzsche
- 1,523
- 6
I wonder if any records survive. We have access to roman records that were older if i am not mistaken, therefore it is not unconceivable that european monks of the day might have had records documenting such an incident (i assume we know of the crop failures from similar records). Or if it hit somewhere else records could be found in Asia.. i think that's the same time as the Tang dynasty, which should also have surviving records. It would be interesting to see some kind of confirmation from ancient records describing what would probably be referred to as a "wrath of god" event. At any rate its pretty interesting stuff.