Medieval Manuscripts Reveal Link Between Lunar Eclipses, Volcanoes, and Climate Change.
Medieval records of lunar eclipses may help reveal vital clues about the volcanic eruptions that may have triggered the Little Ice Age in Europe, according to a new study. The researchers suggest that these records can help estimate the strength of the effect volcanic eruptions had on the stratosphere and therefore global climate. By examining the color and brightness of total lunar eclipses in ancient texts, the researchers could estimate the year and, in some cases, even the month of volcanic eruptions. This improved dating of major volcanic eruptions is "crucial for accurately quantifying the impact of these eruptions on climate," the researchers said.