Ep 5. Alien From Earth

In this episode of NOVA entitled "Alien From Earth," viewers are taken on a journey to the Atacama Desert, a remote and extreme environment in Chile that is often compared to the conditions on Mars. Within this arid region, scientists have made a remarkable discovery: a mummified body that appears to be human, but with unique and unusual physical characteristics.

The discovery of this mummified body, known as the Ata specimen, has sparked a flurry of scientific interest and debate. Some researchers believe that Ata is a previously unknown species of human, possibly one that evolved to survive in the harsh environment of the Atacama Desert. Others suggest that Ata may be a deformed fetus or a non-human animal that has been mummified and misidentified.

To unravel the mystery of Ata's origins and identity, NOVA follows a team of scientists as they use cutting-edge technology to analyze the specimen in detail. This includes CT scanning, DNA sequencing, and other types of analysis that allow the researchers to study Ata's physical characteristics and genetic makeup in depth. Along the way, the team encounters a range of challenges and surprises, including technical difficulties with the scans, unexpected genetic markers found in Ata's DNA, and conflicting opinions among the scientific community about what Ata could be.

Despite these obstacles, the team perseveres in their quest for answers. They compare Ata's skull to those of other human and non-human specimens, and investigate its genetic structure to identify any anomalies or unique features. Along the way, they uncover a wealth of information about the history of life on earth, the processes of evolution and adaptation, and the ways in which science can be used to shed light on even the most ancient mysteries.

Overall, this episode of NOVA is a fascinating exploration of a scientific puzzle that has captured the imagination of researchers and the public alike. By delving into the complexities of Ata's identity and origins, the show invites viewers to consider some of the most fundamental questions of human existence, including where we come from, how we evolve, and what it means to be human. Whether you are a science enthusiast, a skeptic, or simply someone who is curious about the world around us, "Alien From Earth" is sure to be a thought-provoking and engaging episode.