Ep 5. Lightning!

NOVA is a long running science show that has been on air since 1974, and is now in its 23rd season. They feature the work of expert scientists from around the world, who are revolutionizing our understanding of the natural world. In season 23 episode 5, titled Lightning!, they delve into the awe-inspiring forces at work during a lightning storm.

Lightning is one of nature's most impressive displays of power. A bolt of lightning can carry up to one billion volts of electricity, and can reach temperatures that are hotter than the surface of the sun. In this episode, the team at NOVA investigates the science behind lightning, how it forms, and what exactly causes it to strike the ground.

The show features interviews with leading experts in the field, including atmospheric physicist Dr. Mary Ann Cooper, who has spent her career studying the electrical discharges that occur in storms. They explore the myths and misconceptions surrounding lightning, and show viewers how to stay safe during a storm.

Using state-of-the-art technology, the NOVA team captures stunning footage of lightning strikes from all over the world. They also show how lightning interferes with technology, and how it poses a threat to our electrical grid.

The episode also highlights some of the innovative ways scientists are studying lightning. For example, they use high-speed cameras to capture the exact moment when lightning strikes a target, in order to better understand its dynamics. They also use computer models to simulate lightning, and test new materials that can withstand the extreme temperatures of a strike.

In addition to explaining the science behind lightning, the NOVA team also dives into the history of our understanding of the phenomenon. They take viewers on a journey through time, from the ancient Greeks who believed lightning was wielded by the god Zeus, to Benjamin Franklin's famous kite experiment that helped prove lightning was a form of electricity.

Overall, NOVA season 23 episode 5, Lightning!, is an informative and engaging exploration of one of nature's most powerful and fascinating phenomena. With stunning visuals, expert insights, and a strong narrative arc, it is sure to be a hit with science enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.