The latest data show that the sun went the past month without a single visible sunspot: for the first time in over 100 years. In the past, extended periods of low sunspot activity have coincided with historic low temperatures. Many scientists recognize that the magnetic effects of the sun directly affect cloud formation on earth and thus influence the earth's climate to a significant extent.
Here is an excellent explanation of the present data and some possible implications.
AGW is one theory of climatic change. One not substantiated by empirical data. The influence of the sun offers a different approach to understanding climate change: one that does accord with the empirical data.
One offers unlimited political prospects for economic regulation, social engineering and empire building. The other suggests the cosmos is still beyond our attempts at management.
