Ep 17. Alaska

In season 18, episode 17 of Modern Marvels, viewers are taken on a journey to the northernmost state in the United States: Alaska. Known for its rugged terrain, extreme climate, and unique wildlife, Alaska poses many challenges for those who call it home. However, it also boasts some impressive technological advancements and engineering marvels.

The episode begins with an overview of Alaska's size and geography. With over 663,000 square miles of land area, Alaska is the largest state in the United States and is twice the size of Texas. Over half of the state's land area is made up of mountains, making it a challenging place to develop infrastructure. However, over the years, Alaskans have found ways to overcome these obstacles and build impressive structures that allow them to thrive in this harsh environment.

One of the most impressive feats of engineering in Alaska is the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. Built in the 1970s, this 800-mile pipeline transports oil from the north slope of Alaska to the ice-free port of Valdez. The pipeline had to be designed to handle extreme temperature changes, ranging from -80°F in the winter to 90°F in the summer. The episode explores the challenges faced during the construction of the pipeline and how it has held up over the years.

Another technological advancement that has had a significant impact on Alaska is telecommunications. With much of the state's population living in remote areas, getting access to reliable internet and phone service has been a challenge. The episode explores the innovative ways that Alaskans have found to connect with each other and the rest of the world. From microsatellites to underwater fiber optic cables, these advancements have transformed the way people live and work in Alaska.

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of Alaska is its rugged wilderness. The state is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, including glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. In the episode, viewers get a glimpse of some of these natural wonders and learn about the technology used to study them. For example, scientists use remote-controlled drones to study glaciers and gather data that can be used to predict how they will behave in the future.

In addition to its natural wonders, Alaska is also home to a thriving fishing industry. The episode explores the technology used in commercial fishing, including sonar and GPS systems that allow fishermen to locate schools of fish quickly. It also highlights the challenges faced by fishermen, such as unpredictable weather and changing regulations.

Finally, the episode showcases some of the unique ways that Alaskans have adapted to living in this extreme environment. From snow machines to log cabins, Alaska has a rich history of ingenuity and innovation that has allowed its people to thrive. The episode features interviews with Alaskans who have found creative solutions to the challenges of living in this harsh environment.

Overall, season 18, episode 17 of Modern Marvels provides a fascinating glimpse into the unique challenges and innovations of Alaska. From the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System to remote-controlled drones, viewers will gain a newfound appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of the people who call this state home.