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Research Reveals 1848 Train Delay in Exeter Linked to Solar Storm
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What Happened?
A 16-minute train delay in Exeter, England, previously attributed to a solar storm in 1841, has been traced to October 18, 1848, according to new research. The railway line did not exist in 1841, prompting a reevaluation of historical accounts.
Key points
- The original report of the delay was published in 1871, claiming a solar storm disrupted telegraph equipment.
- Historical records confirm the railway line from Exeter to Starcross opened in 1846, not 1841.
- Research indicates the delay likely occurred on October 18, 1848, supported by railway timetables and magnetic activity records.
- The study was led by James A. Wild from Lancaster University, involving an international team.
- The researchers could not verify the original source of the 1871 account, leaving some uncertainty.
Key insights
- The revised timeline may influence how scientists study historical solar activity and its effects.
- This incident highlights the importance of accurate historical records in understanding technological disruptions.
- The findings could prompt further research into other historical accounts of solar storms affecting technology.
Why it matters
Understanding the accurate timeline of historical events helps clarify the impact of solar activity on early technology.
Tags
Entities
Exeter· CityJames A. Wild· PersonLancaster University· OrganizationBritish Geological Survey· OrganizationRMIT University· OrganizationNatural Resources Canada· OrganizationBaylor University· OrganizationRAL Space· OrganizationNature· JournalSpace Weather· Journal
Source
Times of India
