Ep 3. Mysteries of the Moon

In season 2 episode 3 of The Universe, entitled Mysteries of the Moon, viewers are taken on a journey to explore Earth's only natural satellite. This episode delves into the many questions surrounding the moon including its formation, its surface features, and its effect on Earth.

The episode begins with a look at the theories of how the moon was formed. One popular theory suggests that the moon was once a part of Earth, and was torn away during a massive collision. Another theory suggests that the moon formed separately from Earth, but was captured by Earth's gravity. Scientists have been studying the moon for decades, and while they still can't definitively say how the moon was formed, they have gathered a great deal of information about its composition and characteristics.

Next, the episode looks at some of the most prominent features on the moon's surface, including craters, mountains, and maria. The moon is pockmarked with thousands of impact craters, and the largest of these can be seen from Earth with the naked eye. Mountains on the moon are particularly interesting because they are often much taller than mountains on Earth. This is because the moon has no atmosphere and no tectonic activity to wear them down. The maria on the moon are large, dark basins that were formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. These features offer clues into the moon's geological history.

The episode then dives into the mysteries surrounding the moon's relationship with Earth. The moon's gravitational pull causes tides on Earth, and some scientists believe that the moon was instrumental in creating the conditions necessary for life to develop on our planet. Others believe that the moon's presence may have caused Earth's axis to tilt over time, leading to changes in climate and periods of glaciation.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the moon's surface, captured by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. The high-resolution images offer a level of detail never before available, allowing viewers to see the moon in ways they never imagined.

Overall, Mysteries of the Moon is an informative and entertaining look at our nearest celestial neighbor. Whether you're a space enthusiast or simply curious about the natural world, this episode is sure to leave you with a greater understanding and appreciation of the moon and its place in the universe.