Cosmos: Possible Worlds Season 1 Episode 1 Standing Up in the Milky Way
- March 9, 2014
Cosmos: Possible Worlds is back with its stunning second season, and episode 1 titled "Standing Up in the Milky Way" takes us on a magical journey through the Cosmos. This show, which is a follow-up to Cosmos: A Personal Voyage and Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey, is hosted by the renowned astrophysicist, Neil deGrasse Tyson.
The episode starts with Tyson's narration of the story of how humans discovered the Earth was not the center of the universe and how this realization created a shift in our perception of who we are and how we fit into the greater scheme of things.
The audience is transported through time and space to witness the creation of the universe, leading up to the formation of our solar system. We learn about the cosmic "recipe" that created the building blocks of life from the death of massive stars, and the conditions that allowed for life to flourish on Earth.
Throughout the episode, Tyson brings history to life by providing context and depth to the discoveries made by some of history's greatest minds, from Pythagoras to Carl Sagan. He celebrates their curiosity and love of discovery, inspiring viewers to engage in exploration, learning, and discovery of their own.
The show takes us through different geographies including the forests, oceans and deserts, and Tyson discusses the natural processes that allow our planet to sustain life. Tyson also references the study of exoplanets, planets beyond our solar system, and considers their potential to generate life.
The show explores how we are connected to our the planet and the universe as a whole. Tyson touches upon how all life on earth are connected through a shared evolutionary process, and how all of the elements (carbon, oxygen, hydrogen) that make up our body have existed since the beginning of the universe.
Ultimately, "Standing Up in the Milky Way" reminds us of the importance of science, exploration, and discovery. By sharing the stories of previous generations who had to fight for science, Tyson motivates us to continue asking questions, to be curious and to push the boundaries of what we know.
