Ep 12. Cosmic Collisions

The Universe: Ancient Mysteries Solved season 2 episode 12, Cosmic Collisions, takes viewers on a journey through our solar system and beyond to explore the catastrophic collisions that have shaped our universe. The episode begins by examining the evidence of a massive collision that occurred between Earth and a Mars-sized object over 4 billion years ago, ultimately leading to the formation of our moon.

Moving further out into space, the episode explores the Kuiper Belt, a region beyond Neptune that is home to a vast number of icy objects and dwarf planets. Here, the gravitational pull of Neptune has created a series of orbital resonances that can cause objects to collide, leading to the creation of dwarf planets such as Pluto and its moon, Charon.

The episode also takes a closer look at one of the most spectacular collisions in our solar system: the crash of Shoemaker-Levy 9 into Jupiter in 1994. Viewers are treated to stunning footage of the impact, as well as the massive scars left on Jupiter's atmosphere in the aftermath.

Moving beyond our own solar system, the episode explores the role that cosmic collisions have played in the formation and evolution of galaxies. With the help of advanced computer simulations, viewers are able to witness the dramatic merging of galaxies and the creation of massive black holes at their centers.

The episode also delves into the impact that cosmic collisions may have had on the origins of life itself. Some scientists believe that the collision of comets with young Earth may have brought water and other essential elements for life to our planet.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning CGI imagery and animations that help to bring these ancient cosmic collisions to life. The experts and scientists featured in the episode provide insightful commentary and analysis, helping viewers to better understand the role that these collisions have played in shaping our universe.

Overall, The Universe: Ancient Mysteries Solved season 2 episode 12, Cosmic Collisions, is a fascinating exploration of one of the most important and dramatic phenomena in our universe. From the formation of our moon to the creation of black holes, cosmic collisions have left an indelible mark on our universe, and this episode helps to shed light on their mysteries.