Ep 2. Observatories: Stonehenge to the Space Telescopes
- June 8, 1997
- 47 min
Modern Marvels season 4 episode 2 explores the history and evolution of observatories. The episode is titled 'Observatories: Stonehenge to the Space Telescopes'. The show takes viewers on a journey from the ancient observatories, like Stonehenge, to the modern-day space telescopes.
The show starts by delving into the purpose and construction of Stonehenge. It examines how this ancient observatory was built and what it was used for. The episode also highlights the other ancient observatories that were used by civilizations around the world, like the Mayan observatories.
The show then moves onto modern observatories. It looks at the technological advancements that have been made since the ancient times, which have enabled us to observe the universe better. The episode explores the different types of telescopes that have been used throughout history, like the first telescope constructed by Galileo Galilei.
The show also examines how modern telescopes work. It highlights the telescopes that are currently in use, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, and discusses how they operate. The episode explains how telescopes collect light and how they are able to analyze the light to give us valuable information about the universe.
The show also touches on the contributions made by observatories to the field of science. It highlights the discoveries made from observing the universe, such as the discovery of other planets outside our solar system. The episode also examines the importance of observatories in predicting natural disasters like hurricanes and tsunamis.
The episode also showcases the role of observatories in educating the public. It highlights the ways in which observatories have been able to inspire people to learn more about the universe. The episode also explores some of the outreach programs that observatories have created to engage with the public.
Overall, Modern Marvels season 4 episode 2 is an informative exploration of the history and evolution of observatories. The episode uses a mix of interviews with experts, archival footage, and detailed animations to provide viewers with a comprehensive understanding of observatories. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in astronomy and science.
