Read here. Scientists using the latest analysis techniques, conducted a high resolution analysis of the ice core retrieved from Antarctica's Dome C station. The Dome C is located on the eastern half of Antarctica, on the polar plateau with an elevation of 10,607 feet. (The more well-known Vostok polar station is located on the same plateau at a similar elevation, ~ 3,200 meters.)
What did this new high resolution analysis determine?
- The Medieval Warming period had temperatures that approached 1°C higher than current temperatures, in spite of lower CO2 levels.
- The Minoan Warming period had temperatures that possibly exceeded current temperatures by 1°C, in spite of lower CO2 levels.
- The previous interglacial period, approximately 130,000 years ago, had temperatures in excess of 4°C versus current temperatures, in spite of lower CO2 levels.
Clearly, the new ice core data indicates that natural climate variations caused huge temperature variations in the past. Based on this empirical climate science, it would be safe to conclude that current climate changes are predominantly driven by natural forces (see this chart and post also), not human CO2 trace gas emissions. (click on image to enlarge)
This high resolution ice core data ends at the year 1912. The similarly situated Vostok polar station temperature record was used as proxy to assess polar plateau temperature increase/decrease over the last 60 years. As the Vostok temperature data reveals, current temperatures may actually be lower than what the Antarctica plateau experienced during the 1950's. In addition, peer-reviewed studies indicate Antarctica temperature change to be minimal over last two centuries.
Download this newest Dome C ice core research, source here.
Additional historical temperature charts. Climate history postings. Modern temperature charts.
