Ep 6. Ice Mummies: Frozen in Heaven (1)

In season 26 episode 6 of NOVA, titled "Ice Mummies: Frozen in Heaven (1)," viewers are taken on a journey to the highest peaks of the Andes Mountains in search of long-lost ancient human remains.

The episode explores the discovery and study of three mummies found nearly 22,000 feet above sea level, preserved in ice for over 500 years. With the help of modern technology, scientists and archaeologists are able to unravel the mysteries behind these mummies and understand the lives they once led.

Through interviews with experts and stunning visuals of the Andes landscape, viewers learn about the challenges of studying remains in such extreme altitudes and how the ice serves as a natural preservation method for the mummies. The episode also delves into the cultural significance of the mummies for the indigenous population of the region, who view the remains as ancestral beings and still leave offerings and perform rituals at the sites where they were found.

As researchers conduct tests and gather data from samples taken from the mummies, they begin to piece together details about the lives and deaths of these ancient individuals. From insights into their diet and health to understanding the likely causes of their untimely deaths, the findings shed light on a previously unknown aspect of human history.

Overall, "Ice Mummies: Frozen in Heaven (1)" is a captivating look into the world of high-altitude archaeology and the fascinating discoveries waiting to be made in some of the most inhospitable environments on Earth.