Ep 8. Pluto: Back From the Dead
- July 6, 2020
Pluto: Back From the Dead is an episode of Horizon season 2020, which is a science-based documentary series that explores the latest scientific developments and discoveries. In this episode, the focus is on the distant dwarf planet Pluto, which was once thought to be too small and insignificant to warrant much attention.
However, in recent years, interest in Pluto has skyrocketed thanks to NASA's New Horizons spacecraft, which made history by conducting a flyby of the dwarf planet in 2015. This mission provided scientists with the first-ever close-up images of Pluto's surface and revealed a world that was far more complex and fascinating than anyone had anticipated.
Pluto: Back From the Dead examines the scientific breakthroughs that have occurred since the New Horizons mission and the ongoing efforts to understand this enigmatic world. Through interviews with leading experts in the fields of astronomy and planetary science, viewers will learn about the latest research on Pluto's atmosphere, geology, and potential for microbial life.
One of the most significant discoveries made by the New Horizons mission was the presence of a massive, heart-shaped glacier on Pluto's surface. This remarkable feature has since become a major focal point of scientific inquiry, as researchers try to understand how such a glacier could have formed and what it can tell us about the planet's history.
The show also explores the ongoing debate about whether Pluto should be considered a full-fledged planet or reclassified as a dwarf planet. This controversy has been fueled by new data that suggests Pluto may be home to a subsurface ocean, which could potentially harbor life.
Another major focus of the episode is the potential for future missions to Pluto and what they could reveal about this intriguing world. From new spacecraft designs to cutting-edge propulsion technologies, the show examines the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for exploring Pluto and other parts of our solar system.
Ultimately, Pluto: Back From the Dead offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most surprising and mysterious objects in our solar system. Whether you're a seasoned space enthusiast or simply curious about the latest scientific discoveries, this episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the wonders of the universe.
