History & Exploration  Season 1 Episode 21

Ep 21. Phantom Quest: The Search for Extra Terrestrials

  • TV-NR
  • January 1, 2008
  • 32 min

Phantom Quest: The Search for Extra Terrestrials is the 21st episode of the show History & Exploration season 1. The episode explores the ongoing search for evidence of extraterrestrial life and the various methods being employed to find them.

The episode starts with a brief introduction to the concept of extraterrestrial life and the history of human fascination with the idea. The narrator highlights the numerous reported cases of UFO sightings throughout history and the various conspiracy theories surrounding them.

The episode then delves into the scientific approaches being used to search for extraterrestrial life. The first method discussed is the technique of radio astronomy, in which astronomers use sensitive radio telescopes to search for signals from other planets. The narrator explains the logic behind the search, which argues that since radio signals are one of the most efficient ways to transmit information across vast distances, it is logical to assume that an advanced extraterrestrial civilization would be using radio signals to communicate.

Next, the episode explores the use of space probes and missions to other planets in our solar system, particularly Mars. The narrator explains the rationale behind the search, which is based on the theory that Mars may have once had a habitable environment similar to Earth and may still contain evidence of primitive life. The episode highlights the various missions to Mars that have been undertaken, including the Mars Rovers and the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, and the data they have collected so far.

The episode also briefly touches on the concept of exoplanets, which are planets that exist outside our solar system. The narrator explains that the discovery of exoplanets has opened up new possibilities for the search for extraterrestrial life, as some of these planets may be similar in composition and atmosphere to Earth and may have conditions conducive to supporting life.

The episode then shifts focus to the controversial topic of UFO sightings and alien abductions. The narrator presents a balanced view of the issue, highlighting both the skepticism of the scientific community regarding such claims and the passion and conviction of those who believe in them. The episode features interviews with individuals who claim to have had UFO sightings or alien encounters and explores the various theories that have been put forward to explain such phenomena.

Finally, the episode concludes with a look at the future of the search for extraterrestrial life. The narrator highlights the numerous questions that remain unanswered and the challenges that lie ahead, but also acknowledges the potential for new discoveries and breakthroughs in the field.

Overall, Phantom Quest: The Search for Extra Terrestrials provides a comprehensive overview of the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life and the various methods being employed to find evidence of it. The episode is engaging and thought-provoking, and will appeal to anyone with an interest in science, space exploration, and the mysteries of the universe.

Description
Watch History & Exploration - Phantom Quest: The Search for Extra Terrestrials (s1 e21) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
History & Exploration , Season 1 Episode 21, is available to watch and stream on National Geographic. You can also buy, rent History & Exploration on demand at Amazon online.
  • First Aired
    January 1, 2008
  • Content Rating
    TV-NR
  • Runtime
    32 min
  • Language
    English