NOVA scienceNOW Season 1 Episode 1 Mirror Neurons/Hurricanes/Profile: James McLurkin/Booming Sands/Kinetic Sculptor/Conundrum

NOVA scienceNOW season 1 episode 1 covers a variety of exciting and diverse topics related to science and technology. The first segment of the episode explores Mirror Neurons, which are specialized brain cells that allow humans and animals to imitate and understand the actions of others. We learn about the groundbreaking research of Italian neuroscientist Giacomo Rizzolatti, who discovered mirror neurons in monkeys and later found that humans have similar cells in their brains. The segment includes interviews with Rizzolatti and other experts in the field, as well as fascinating footage of brain scans and experiments.

The second segment of the episode examines Hurricanes, one of the most destructive natural phenomena on Earth. We learn about the cutting-edge technology used by meteorologists to predict and track hurricanes, including Doppler radar, satellite imagery, and computer modeling. The segment also features interviews with hurricane hunters, who fly planes directly into the eye of the storm to gather data and observations. We see stunning footage of hurricanes in action, as well as dramatic stories of individuals who have survived these powerful storms.

The third segment of the episode profiles James McLurkin, a robotics engineer who designs and builds small robots that can work together as a team. We learn about McLurkin's innovative research at MIT, where he developed algorithms and programming languages that allow robots to communicate and coordinate their actions with each other. The segment features interviews with McLurkin and his colleagues, as well as footage of his robots in action.

The fourth segment of the episode takes us to the deserts of Arizona, where we discover Booming Sands, a mysterious phenomenon that occurs in certain areas when sand dunes vibrate and create a loud, booming sound. We learn about the scientific explanation for this phenomenon, as well as its cultural significance to the Native American tribes who have long lived in the area. The segment includes interviews with geologists, acousticians, and Native American leaders, as well as mesmerizing footage of the booming sands.

The fifth segment of the episode introduces us to a Kinetic Sculptor, Arthur Ganson, who creates intricate machines and sculptures that swirl, twirl, and move in mesmerizing ways. We learn about Ganson's creative process, his inspiration, and his passion for engineering and art. The segment includes interviews with Ganson, as well as footage of his amazing creations, which range from hand-cranked machines to giant whirligigs.

The final segment of the episode presents a Conundrum, a brain-teaser that challenges viewers to solve a tricky riddle involving a set of scales and twelve balls. We learn about the mathematical principles underlying the puzzle, as well as strategies and techniques for solving it. The segment is presented as a fun and interactive way to engage viewers and test their problem-solving skills.

Overall, NOVA scienceNOW season 1 episode 1 is an engaging and informative exploration of science and technology, featuring a diverse range of topics and personalities. Whether you're interested in neuroscience, meteorology, robotics, geology, sculpture, or puzzles, there's something for everyone in this episode.