Ep 12. Submarines, Secrets, and Spies

NOVA is an Emmy Award-winning science series that explores the frontiers of science and technology. Season 26 episode 12 titled "Submarines, Secrets, and Spies" uncovers the fascinating world of submarine technology and espionage.

The episode starts by exploring the development of submarines and their evolution over the years. It goes into detail about the features of modern-day submarines, which are highly sophisticated, stealthy, and equipped with powerful weapons. The episode also sheds light on the challenges and dangers associated with working on submarines, such as living in a confined space for months at a time, dealing with extreme pressure, and the risks of explosions.

The episode then delves into the topic of submarine espionage and how submarines have been used to gather intelligence by superpowers such as the United States and Russia. It shows the different methods used for gathering intelligence, including underwater listening posts, tapping undersea cables, and deploying spy submarines.

The episode goes on to talk about the importance of being able to detect enemy submarines and how it has been a challenge for both sides since World War II. The US Navy has been working on various techniques and technologies to detect and track enemy submarines. One such technique is exploiting noise leaks from submarines to track them. The episode shows how the Navy uses a network of underwater microphones to listen for noise leaks and create a picture of the enemy's submarine activity.

The episode also highlights the race to develop unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) or "drones" that can be used for reconnaissance and surveillance. The benefits of UUVs are that they can be used for extended periods, can operate autonomously, and can get closer to an enemy submarine without being detected.

Throughout the episode, the focus is on the importance of secrecy and protecting classified information. The episode describes the strict procedures in place to safeguard information, including compartmentalization of information and only providing "need-to-know" access. It shows how the Navy uses simulations and role-playing exercises to train submarine crews and keep them prepared for any eventuality.

In conclusion, the episode "Submarines, Secrets, and Spies" is a fascinating look into the world of submarine technology and espionage. It highlights the challenges and dangers associated with working on submarines and shows how submarines have been used for intelligence gathering and espionage. It also shows how the race to develop new technologies and techniques to detect and track enemy submarines is ongoing, and that secrecy and protecting classified information is paramount.