Ep 4. Asteroid: Countdown to Catastrophe

Asteroid: Countdown to Catastrophe is the fourth episode of the eleventh season of How the Universe Works. The episode focuses on the various threats posed by asteroids, which are millions of years old, and how they have shaped our planet's history.

The episode starts by exploring the asteroid belt, which is located between Mars and Jupiter, and identifies the different types of asteroids that exist. Some asteroids are small and harmless, while others are large and potentially deadly. The episode goes on to explain that the biggest threat to Earth is a collision with a large asteroid, which could cause widespread damage and destruction.

The episode then delves into the history of asteroid impacts on Earth, starting with the Chicxulub impact that wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. It explains how the impact caused massive tsunamis, earthquakes, and wildfires, leading to the extinction of over 70% of all species on the planet. The episode also explores other significant impacts in Earth's history, such as the Tunguska event in 1908, which flattened 80 million trees in Siberia, and the Chelyabinsk meteor in 2013, which injured over a thousand people in Russia.

The show then moves on to discuss the efforts being made to prevent a catastrophic asteroid impact. It highlights NASA's planetary defense initiative, which aims to identify all potentially hazardous asteroids and comets that could pose a threat to Earth. The episode explains how NASA uses telescopes and other instruments to track objects in space and calculate their trajectories. It also explores the different methods being developed to deflect or destroy an asteroid in case of an imminent collision with Earth.

Asteroid: Countdown to Catastrophe also features interviews with scientists and experts who share their insights and perspectives on the topic. They explain the challenges and complexities involved in detecting and tracking asteroids, as well as the potential consequences of a catastrophic impact. The episode discusses the ethical considerations of targeting asteroids, as they could potentially contain valuable resources that could be mined in the future.

In conclusion, Asteroid: Countdown to Catastrophe is a thought-provoking and informative episode that explores the fascinating subject of asteroids and their potential impact on our planet. It highlights the importance of continued research and development in the field of planetary defense, as well as the need for global collaboration in addressing this critical issue. The episode leaves viewers with a sense of awe and appreciation for the intricate and interconnected systems that make up the universe we live in.