For 155 years, scientists believed a solar storm delayed a train in Exeter, England, in 1841, but the railway did not exist until 1846; researchers now say the storm and the 16-minute delay really happened in 1848
A fascinating correction has emerged from the archives concerning a train delay in Exeter. Initially reported incorrectly, researchers have clarified that the incident actually transpired on October 18, 1848. This revelation was achieved through the analysis of railway records and contemporary newspapers, alongside geomagnetic data, which pointed to a significant solar storm influencing the delay during that time.
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Story file
- Section
- Science
- Topics
- Weather & monsoon, Railways & travel
- First reported by
- The Times Of India
- Reporter
- toi science desk
- Published
- Saturday, 24 October 2026, 11:10 pm IST
- Coverage
- One outlet so far
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