Ep 16. Space, Soil and Senses

As the season 4 of Mission Unstoppable reaches its 16th episode, the viewers are in for a treat with an immersive experience of exploring the depths of space, the intricacies of soil, and the wonders of human senses.

The episode opens with host Miranda Cosgrove introducing us to Dr. Amy Mainzer, an astrophysicist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Dr. Mainzer sheds light on how astronauts live in space for long durations and how NASA is working to create self-sustaining colonies on other planets. From discussing scientific experiments for growing food to collecting data about the atmosphere on Mars and analyzing the composition of planets and moons in our solar system, Dr. Mainzer shares fascinating insights into space exploration and the limitless potential it holds.

Next, we move on to the ground beneath our feet, with host Kristen Bell stepping in to showcase the importance of soil. She meets up with Aidan and his father, who are studying the soil microbiome and its impact on plant growth. Aidan takes Kristen on a tour of his father’s farm, where they explain how soil bacteria and fungi can help fight climate change and increase crop yields. The episode highlights the critical role that soil plays in the ecosystem, from supporting plants to filtering water to providing habitats for countless creatures.

The final segment is all about the wonders of human senses, where host Emily Calandrelli delves into the science of sensory perception. She talks to neuroscientist Dr. Heather Berlin, who explains the complex process of how our brains process sensory input and create our perception of the world around us. Emily then participates in a sensory deprivation experiment, where she spends time in a dark, soundproof room to see how the lack of sensory input affects her brain. This segment is a fascinating exploration of how our senses work and how they impact our daily lives, from our ability to enjoy food to our sense of balance and spatial awareness.

Overall, Space, Soil and Senses is a fascinating look at some of the most intriguing and essential topics in science today. From the far reaches of space to the soil beneath our feet, the episode highlights the beauty and complexity of our world and the endless potential for scientific exploration and understanding. With its engaging hosts, striking visuals, and informative content, Mission Unstoppable season 4 episode 16 is sure to captivate viewers of all ages and inspire a love of science and discovery.