Ep 9. Extraterrestrial Life

The show Explained season 1 episode 9 is named "Extraterrestrial Life," which delves into the possibility of life beyond our planet Earth. The episode poses the question of whether we are alone in the universe or not.

The show starts with an introduction of the rare Earth hypothesis, which states that Earth is the only planet in the universe that can support life. It then moves on to the different ways in which we are attempting to find evidence of life on other planets- including the search for radio signals from other intelligent beings and the search for microbial life on other planets.

The episode highlights the technological advancements that have led to the discovery of exoplanets, planets that orbit a star outside of our solar system. It explains how telescopes, such as the Kepler Space Telescope, have helped in the discovery of thousands of exoplanets, some of which are in the habitable zone- the area around a star where the planet's temperature is just right for liquid water to exist.

The episode also delves into the search for microbial life on other planets. It covers the missions that have been sent to Mars in an attempt to find evidence of past or current microbial life on the planet. The program explains how the Mars rover, Curiosity, is helping in the search for life on the red planet. It explains how the rover has drilled into the Martian surface and analyzed rock samples for any signs of life.

The episode also covers the idea that life on Earth may have originated from extraterrestrial objects such as comets and meteorites that may have brought the necessary ingredients for life to Earth. The program further explains that life on other planets may have originated in a similar way.

The program highlights the challenges and limitations of searching for extraterrestrial life. It explains that given the vastness of the universe, it is challenging to search for life on other planets because of the distance between us and other planets. It also explains the limitations of our technology and the methods we currently use to search for life beyond Earth.

Finally, the episode explores the implications of finding life on other planets. It postulates how such a discovery may change our view of ourselves and our place in the universe. It also explores the possibility of the existence of civilizations that are more advanced than ours and the implications for our future.

In conclusion, Explained season 1 episode 9 "Extraterrestrial Life" explores the search for life beyond Earth. It covers the different methods used to search for life, the challenges and limitations faced in the search and the implications of finding life on other planets. The episode provides a fascinating look at one of the most intriguing questions in science- are we alone in the universe?