Murphy Brown Season 4 Episode 11 Mission Control

In season 4 episode 11 of Murphy Brown, titled Mission Control, the gang find themselves covering the launch of the Space shuttle Atlantis. The episode starts with Murphy, Frank, Corky and Miles driving down to Cape Canaveral in a rented RV. Upon arriving, they are greeted with excitement and anticipation for the launch, which has already been delayed twice. As they set up their equipment to broadcast, they discover that they have been assigned to the pressroom, which is notoriously underwhelming and without a view of the actual launch.

Meanwhile, the rest of the FYI team is back in Washington and tasked with covering the story from there. Avery is given the chance to interview the head of NASA, while Eldin is excited to work on a mural commemorating the launch. They all watch from afar as the countdown begins and the shuttle takes off into space.

Back in Cape Canaveral, Murphy and the gang attempt to salvage their coverage by talking to other journalists and scientists in the pressroom. They also try to sneak into the VIP viewing area, but are thwarted by security. With their hopes of a good story fading, Corky suggests they all participate in a mission simulation, where they learn what it's like to go to space and complete a mission.

As they're suiting up and getting ready for their mission, they witness a malfunction in the shuttle's communication system and fear for the safety of the crew aboard. They soon learn that the crew was able to fix the issue and complete their mission successfully, but the FYI team is left to ponder the risks and rewards of space travel. The episode ends with Murphy reflecting on her experience at the launch and how it has changed her perspective on life.

Overall, Mission Control is a poignant and engaging episode that delves into the excitement and danger of space exploration. The cast delivers strong performances, capturing both the wonder and fear of the event. The writing is top-notch, balancing lighthearted moments with weighty reflection. It's a must-watch for fans of the series who appreciate its blend of humor and heart.