Mysteries at the Museum Season 11 Episode 29 The First Super Computer, Flying Under Fire and Dighton Rock

In season 11, episode 29 of Mysteries at the Museum, viewers will be taken on a journey through history to explore three intriguing artifacts: the first supercomputer, an airplane that flew under fire, and the mysterious Dighton Rock.

The episode begins by exploring the world's first supercomputer, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer, or the ABC machine. Built in the 1930s by John Atanasoff and his graduate student, Clifford Berry, this revolutionary computer used binary code and electronic circuits to perform complex calculations in a fraction of the time it would take a human. However, despite its groundbreaking technology, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer was quickly overshadowed by other computers that were being developed during World War II. In this segment, viewers will learn about the tumultuous history behind this forgotten but significant invention and how it paved the way for modern computing.

Next, viewers will be introduced to a vintage airplane that saw action during World War II. The P-51 Mustang was one of the most successful fighter planes of the war and was known for its speed and maneuverability. The particular P-51 featured in the episode has a storied history—it was piloted by Major Jack L. Bradley, who was shot down over Italy in 1944. Despite being badly injured, Bradley managed to land the plane safely behind enemy lines, and was later rescued by Allied forces. This segment showcases the bravery and ingenuity of soldiers during wartime, and highlights the vital role that planes like the P-51 played in securing victory.

The final mystery explored in this episode centers around Dighton Rock, a large boulder located in the Taunton River in Massachusetts. The rock is covered in mysterious carvings that have been interpreted variously as Norse, Portuguese, and Native American in origin. Some have even suggested that the rock was inscribed by extraterrestrial visitors. In this segment, viewers will learn about the history of the rock and the different theories that have been put forward to explain its enigmatic markings.

Throughout the episode, host Don Wildman guides viewers through the stories behind each artifact, using expert interviews, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments to bring the past to life. From the cutting-edge technology of the early computer age to the daring exploits of World War II pilots, Mysteries at the Museum season 11, episode 29 is a fascinating exploration of some of the most intriguing artifacts in history.