Ep 6. Engineering Disasters 18

Engineering is the backbone of modern development and advancement. Over the years, some of the most remarkable feats of human engineering have given birth to wonders that have changed the course of history, like bridges, tunnels, dams, power grids, skyscrapers, and airplanes. However, engineering is not always a success story. In fact, it's only through the failures of engineering that scientists and engineers have been able to learn from their mistakes and improve the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of their designs. Modern Marvels Season 13 Episode 6 titled "Engineering Disasters 18" explores some of the most significant and infamous engineering disasters of the 21st century that demonstrate the crucial role of engineering mistakes in shaping our world.

The episode takes the form of a deep-dive into some of the most notable engineering failures of the last two decades. From the nuclear meltdowns at Fukushima and Chernobyl to the collapse of the I-35 bridge in Minnesota, we see how these disasters have shaped modern society's infrastructure policies and approach towards engineering designs. Moreover, the show provides insight into the causes that lead to these catastrophic events. For instance, viewers learn about how the failure to follow proper maintenance and inspection procedures led to the massive explosion of BP's Deepwater Horizon oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. In another segment, the show explores how a software glitch led to a rocket engine explosion during the maiden flight of the SpaceX Falcon 1 in 2006.

The episode uses interviews with experts, accident witnesses, and dramatic recreations to provide audiences with a sense of what went wrong and how it happened and explores the consequences of these disasters. For instance, we see how the disastrous design of levees surrounding New Orleans led to massive flooding and destruction during Hurricane Katrina. Similarly, the episode reveals how the construction of the Millau Viaduct in France, the world's tallest bridge, posed significant challenges and safety concerns during the design and construction phase, but ultimately emerged as a marvel of modern engineering.

In addition to exploring recent disasters, the Modern Marvels episode examines the history of engineering failures and how they have influenced the current approach to engineering safety protocols. We see how the infamous explosion of the Hindenburg airship in 1937 resulted in the development of strict safety standards for air travel. Similarly, we learn how the devastating collapse of the Quebec Bridge in 1907 resulted in new measures for inspecting and approving the safety of bridges.

Overall, Modern Marvels Season 13 Episode 6 is a compelling and informative look at the dark side of engineering that provides an understanding of how oversights and design flaws can lead to some of the most devastating catastrophes in history. The show offers an eye-opening look at how science and engineering can learn from these disasters to prevent similar tragedies in the future.