Ep 5. Alien Moons
- TV-14
- January 8, 2008
- 44 min
-
7.7 (105)
The Universe: Ancient Mysteries Solved is a documentary TV series that explores the mysteries of the universe from a scientific perspective. In season 2 episode 5, titled "Alien Moons," the show delves into the fascinating topic of moons in our solar system and beyond.
The episode begins by examining our own moon, which has had a profound impact on Earth's history and evolution. We learn about the various theories about how the moon was formed, including the giant impact hypothesis and the capture theory. Scientists explain how studying the moon can tell us a lot about the early days of our solar system.
The focus then shifts to the outer planets and their moons, which are some of the most intriguing destinations in our solar system for scientists and space enthusiasts alike. The episode examines the bizarre moons of Jupiter, including Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. We learn how Io is the most volcanically active place in the solar system, with over 400 active volcanoes, while Europa is thought to have a subsurface ocean that could potentially harbor life.
Moving on to Saturn, the episode explores the enigmatic moon Enceladus, which is covered in a thick layer of ice. Scientists have discovered that Enceladus has geysers that shoot water and particles into space, and there is evidence of a subsurface ocean there as well. The episode also looks at Titan, which is the only moon in our solar system with a substantial atmosphere. Titan's methane lakes and rivers have captured the imaginations of scientists and could potentially be a target for future exploration.
The episode then takes us beyond our solar system to the countless exoplanets that have been discovered in recent years. The show highlights some of the strangest and most fascinating exomoons, including a giant exomoon that orbits a planet like a miniature solar system, and a moon that is so close to its planet that it completes an orbit in just a few hours.
Throughout the episode, scientists and experts explain the latest research and discoveries in the field of moon exploration, and give insight into the future of space exploration. The episode is full of stunning visuals and computer-generated imagery that bring these incredible moons to life.
In "Alien Moons," viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the moons in our solar system and beyond, and how they have shaped our understanding of the universe. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in astronomy, space exploration, and the mysteries of the cosmos.