A drawing of the aurora observed in Japan in 1770 displayed brightness comparable to a full moon. In 1859, a mysterious event created red skies across Japan, baffling residents who suspected distant fires. Later, it was discovered that these frightening displays were actually auroras caused by solar activity. The 1859 solar storm damaged telegraph cables and had global effects. Researchers in Japan are studying historical records to improve solar activity modeling for the future. Recent discoveries link tree rings to solar events, revealing past auroras dating back to 10,000 B.C.E. The research team’s interdisciplinary approach uncovers new evidence, enhancing our understanding of the sun’s activity.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/inside-the-quest-to-find-evidence-of-auroras-in-ancient-texts-180983844/