Ep 7. The Backbone of Night
- November 9, 1980
-
8.8 (518)
In Cosmos season 1 episode 7, titled "The Backbone of Night," host Neil deGrasse Tyson takes viewers on a journey to discover the origins of the universe and the secrets held within the night sky. Through stunning visuals and captivating storytelling, Tyson explains the importance of our quest to understand the universe and how it contributes to our understanding of our place in the world.
Tyson begins by exploring the history of astronomy, highlighting the contributions of ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians and Greeks. He then introduces viewers to the work of Johannes Kepler, who discovered the laws of planetary motion, and explains how these laws helped scientists understand the geometry of the universe.
From there, Tyson delves deeper into the mysteries of the universe, including the phenomena of black holes and dark matter. He explains how the presence of dark matter helps explain the gravitational forces that keep galaxies together, and how this discovery has revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos.
Throughout the episode, Tyson emphasizes the importance of scientific inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge. He acknowledges the challenges and limitations of scientific research, but also highlights the achievements that have been made possible through scientific curiosity.
"The Backbone of Night" is a stunning exploration of the secrets held within the universe and the ongoing quest to unlock its mysteries. Through mesmerizing visuals, engaging storytelling, and expert explanations, Tyson inspires viewers to continue exploring the vast expanse of the cosmos and to embrace the limitless possibilities of scientific discovery.