Ep 13. Mars Waterworld

In the season 4 episode 13 of Naked Science, viewers are taken on a thrilling journey to explore the possibility of life on Mars. Titled as Mars Waterworld, the episode investigates the red planet's history of water and the potential it has to support life.

The show begins by examining Mars' geology and geography. The narrator explains how the landscape of Mars was formed and how it is very similar to that of Earth. Experts speculate that thousands of years ago, Mars had a vast ocean that covered almost a third of the planet's surface. The evidence shows numerous valleys, canyons, and water channels that lead to this theory.

The discovery of water on Mars is one of the most remarkable successes in space exploration. Scientists have used various methods to detect water on Mars, such as satellite images, rovers, and landers. The episode explains how the machines used to explore Mars have improved over the years and shared some of the insights they've gained. The narrator points out that to date, Mars exploration has been costly, challenging, and risky, since it takes over seven months to get there.

Moreover, the show highlights the importance of water on other planets. The episode goes into detail about how water is essential for life, and without it, there would be no possibility of life elsewhere. Furthermore, the episode reveals how incredible advances measuring the salinity of water have been. Recent data suggests that some sources of water found on Mars could be drinkable as the salinity levels are relatively low.

The episode also investigates the possibility of life on Mars. Although Mars is considered a hostile environment, some organisms can survive in extreme circumstances. Scientists are studying extremophiles, which are organisms living in high-pressure environments with little to no oxygen. By understanding how they survive, there could be indications of how life could evolve on Mars. The show mentions the latest Mars missions, and the advancements in technology have led to scientists finding organic molecules and methane gas on Mars, giving more evidence to the possibility of life on Mars.

Moreover, the episode explores the potential colonization of Mars. Due to global warming, overpopulation, and environmental degradation, humanity is looking towards Mars as a potential new home. The show talks about how NASA plans to have people on Mars by 2030. The episode highlights the new developments for transporting humans to Mars and setting up camp there. Astronauts would need shelter, water, oxygen, and food to survive, which is achievable using the resources found on Mars. Experts are designing programs that will enable humanity to live on Mars sustainably.

Overall, Naked Science season 4 episode 13 - Mars Waterworld, is a fascinating exploration of the possibility of finding life and colonizing Mars. Through excellent visuals, experts' interviews, space missions, and scientific data, the episode provides compelling evidence on the possibility of life in the next frontier. Meanwhile, the show emphasizes the need for continued study of Mars and the importance of protecting our own planet.