Ep 12. Seven Wonders of the New World

In Cosmos season 2 episode 12, titled Seven Wonders of the New World, viewers are taken on a journey through time and space to explore the marvels of civilization in the Americas. Host Neil deGrasse Tyson guides us through the stories and mysteries behind seven of the most impressive structures in the New World.

The first wonder on our list is Machu Picchu, a mountaintop citadel situated in the Peruvian Andes. Tyson examines the complex engineering that went into its design, from its water supply system to its earthquake-resistant architecture. He also sheds light on the Inca Empire's advanced knowledge of astronomy, which was essential to constructing Machu Picchu.

Next up is Chichén Itzá, a Mayan city in Mexico that features the imposing temple of Kukulkan, or "the feathered serpent." Tyson delves into the mythology and astronomical significance behind the temple's design, and explores the evidence that suggests the Mayans may have been observing the skies thousands of years ago.

The third wonder on our list is the Nazca lines, a collection of massive geoglyphs etched into the desert of southern Peru. Tyson considers the theories behind their creation, from religious rituals to signals for extraterrestrial life. He also examines the technology that allowed the Nazca people to create such massive and precise designs without the aid of modern tools.

The fourth wonder takes us to Teotihuacan, a pre-Columbian city in modern-day Mexico that was home to some of the largest pyramids in the world. Tyson explores the architecture, religious symbolism, and political power of the Teotihuacan civilization, which flourished more than a millennium ago.

Fifth on our list is the Great Serpent Mound, a giant effigy of a serpent that stretches across the landscape of Ohio. Tyson investigates the meaning and significance behind this monumental creation, which was likely built by the Adena people over two thousand years ago.

Sixth is the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings in Colorado, which were home to the Ancestral Puebloans for several centuries. Tyson examines the clever engineering and architectural feats that allowed these ancient people to construct their homes in the cliffs, and considers how they adapted to the harsh conditions of the desert environment.

Finally, we end our journey with the Cahokia mounds in Illinois, the largest pre-Columbian urban center in North America. Tyson examines the history and culture of the Mississippian people, who built the massive structures that still exist today. He also considers the stunning achievements of their civilization, such as their astronomical observations and their innovative farming techniques.

Throughout the episode, Tyson takes a closer look at the fascinating history and impressive feats of engineering that went into creating these seven wonders of the New World. Whether the focus is on the Inca Empire's advanced understanding of astronomy or the ingenious design of the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings, Seven Wonders of the New World showcases the remarkable achievements of indigenous civilizations that flourished in the Americas long before the arrival of Europeans.