Horizon Season 2015 Episode 1 Secrets of the Solar System

In the first episode of the 2015 season of Horizon, titled "Secrets of the Solar System," viewers are taken on a journey through our solar system to learn about the mysteries and secrets that lie within. The episode begins by exploring the latest discoveries by scientists regarding the planet Jupiter. Using new technology and data gathered from spacecrafts like Juno, scientists have been able to map out Jupiter's magnetic field, revealing new details about its internal structure and behavior. Viewers will learn about the ongoing scientific debate surrounding Jupiter's origins, as well as theories about the possible existence of a "Planet Nine" beyond Pluto.

Moving beyond Jupiter, the episode then delves into the mysteries surrounding the planet Mars. Specifically, the episode focuses on the search for evidence of past or present life on the Red Planet. With recent findings of liquid water on Mars, scientists are more hopeful than ever before that there may be microbial life hiding just beneath the surface. Viewers will learn about the different methods scientists are using to uncover evidence of life on Mars, from rover missions to orbiter missions and sample return missions.

The episode then takes viewers on a journey to the edge of our solar system to learn about the mysterious Kuiper Belt. This region beyond the orbit of Neptune is home to countless icy objects, many of which are giving scientists new clues about the early days of our solar system. Viewers will learn about the New Horizons mission, which recently explored Pluto and its moons, and the exciting new discoveries that have come from that mission.

From there, the episode returns to the inner solar system to explore the challenges of detecting near-Earth objects, or NEOs. With the knowledge that a large asteroid impact could have catastrophic consequences for life on Earth, scientists are working hard to identify and track any potentially dangerous NEOs. Viewers will learn about the different techniques used to find and track NEOs, including using ground-based telescopes and even launching a mission to intercept and redirect a NEO.

Finally, the episode ends by exploring the latest discoveries and research into the phenomenon of dark matter and dark energy. Despite being the most abundant substances in the universe, scientists still don't know much about these mysterious and elusive substances. However, recent observational data from the European Space Agency's Planck mission is providing new insights into the nature of dark energy, and scientists are hopeful that we may be on the cusp of understanding more about these enigmatic substances.

Overall, "Secrets of the Solar System" provides a fascinating look at the ongoing exploration and discovery in our own celestial backyard. With stunning visuals and expert insights from scientists around the world, this Horizon episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the mysteries of space.