NOVA Season 12 Episode 3 Fountains of Paradise

In the NOVA season 12 episode 3, titled "Fountains of Paradise," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the world's most impressive engineering feats: bridges. Specifically, the documentary follows the construction of the world's longest bridge, the 102-mile Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China.

What sets this bridge apart from others is its support system: instead of relying on traditional concrete reinforcements, the bridge is built using steel wires that are held in tension. This unique design presents a number of challenges for engineers, who must take into account factors such as wind, temperature, and traffic loads.

The documentary covers the entire process of building the bridge, from planning and design to construction and completion. Viewers are introduced to the team of engineers and construction workers tasked with building the bridge, and get an inside look at the various tools and techniques they use, including a massive crane that can lift tons of steel at a time.

Throughout the episode, viewers also learn about the history of engineering and bridge building, dating back to ancient civilizations. From the Romans to the Brooklyn Bridge, the documentary touches on some of the world's most iconic feats of engineering, and discusses how these early innovations influenced modern bridge construction.

The episode also touches on the economics of bridge building, highlighting the tremendous costs associated with constructing such massive structures. Viewers are introduced to the concept of "value engineering," which involves finding ways to reduce costs without sacrificing safety or quality.

Another key theme of the episode is the importance of collaboration and teamwork in engineering. Throughout the construction process, the engineers and workers must work together to solve problems and overcome challenges. The episode also touches on the dangers associated with bridge building, including the risk of accidents and the challenges of working at extreme heights.

Overall, "Fountains of Paradise" is a fascinating look at one of the world's most impressive engineering feats. Viewers will come away with a newfound appreciation for the incredible work that goes into building these enormous structures, and an understanding of the challenges and risks involved in bridge construction. Whether you're an engineering enthusiast or simply curious about how these impressive landmarks are built, this NOVA episode is sure to captivate and inspire.