Continent 7: Antarctica Season 1 Episode 5

Ep 5. Science of Survival

  • TV-PG
  • December 13, 2016
  • 47 min

Antarctica, home to some of the harshest weather conditions and extreme environments on the planet, is one of the most challenging places to perform scientific research. In Continent 7: Antarctica season 1 episode 5, titled "Science of Survival," viewers are introduced to the complex scientific experiments and challenging conditions scientists face in Antarctica.

As the episode unfolds, we follow a team of scientists from various fields as they brave the harsh weather and follow their scientific pursuits in this unforgiving, icy continent. From measuring the ocean's temperature and currents, studying the soil, and observing animal behavior, we get an in-depth look at the science of survival that dominates life at the bottom of the world.

One of the most intriguing segments of the episode is the exploration of the Armstrong Glacier, which has presented unique challenges for scientists. A team working on the glacier is faced with a combination of freezing temperatures, variable oxygen levels, and strong winds. The group has developed what might be known as a movable "ice garage" dormitary that can be matched up the glacier as they work. Inside the garage, they are able to perform experiments, take measurements, and analyze samples, even in the middle of a snowstorm.

The team's task is to find out how this huge mass of ice buckles, cracks, and moves as it moves towards the ocean. The first challenge is just setting up camp. They must drill through the ice for hours just to create a sturdy base, and then hope it doesn't melt or shift in the coming weeks. The group uses specialized tech to take measurements from within the glacier's interior without risking the precarious journey that sets atop its surface, while the team of scientists is cut off from the outside world for days as they work.

Another focal point of the episode is the team of geologists who traverse the frozen terrain, extracting ice cores to study the climate record of the past century. The cores reveal information about the continent's weather patterns and temperature changes, as well as provide insight into past volcanic eruptions and atmospheric conditions.

As they work to study these changes, the team is also faced with the reality that the time to collect their samples is running out. As the Antarctic summer transitions into winter, they are forced to work quickly before the weather becomes too harsh for them to continue their research. The team must work carefully, slowly extracting the ice cores from the frozen environment, in order to make sure they in good condition for study.

We’re also introduced to the work of marine biologist Dr. Kirsty Brown, who studies the effects of climate change on the continent's unique ecosystem. In order to do this, she spends much of her time working underwater, studying the creatures that call the icy ocean their home. Using cutting-edge technology, she is able to observe marine life without disturbing the environment.

Throughout "Science of Survival," viewers are treated to awe-inspiring shots of the continent's natural beauty and the resilience of those who study it. From tracking dangerous ice sheets to deploying drones to aid in scientific research, the scientists show incredible dedication to their work despite the challenges.

Overall, "Science of Survival" offers an intimate look into how scientists adapt and innovate in the face of harsh and changing conditions, and highlights the importance of Antarctic research to our understanding of the planet.

Description
Watch Continent 7: Antarctica - Science of Survival (s1 e5) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
Continent 7: Antarctica, Season 1 Episode 5, is available to watch and stream on National Geographic Channel. You can also buy, rent Continent 7: Antarctica on demand at Disney+, Amazon, Google Play, Apple TV online.
  • First Aired
    December 13, 2016
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    47 min
  • Language
    English