NOVA Season 19 Episode 5 Taller Than Everest?

NOVA season 19 episode 5 is titled "Taller Than Everest?" The episode is a exploration of the measurement of the height of mountains around the world, specifically the Mount Everest of Himalayas. This episode is a continuation of the fascination for measuring the highest point on earth since the 19th century.

The episode starts by delving into the history of measuring heights of mountains, with varying degrees of accuracy. In the early days, measurements were less accurate and had many flaws; as there was no standard to measure. The episode draws examples from early British and American explorers who tried to measure the height of Everest multiple times, but failed.

One of the interesting aspects of this episode is the clash between different teams of scientists and their methods of measurement of the mountain heights, with each side convinced of the correctness of their method. One such conflict is between Tom Murphy of the US-based High Altitude Scientific Expedition and the International Association of Geodesy, led by Dr. Franz Leberl. A heated discussion between Tom and Dr. Leberl ensues, with Dr. Leberl criticizing Tom’s methodology, as they both measure the height of a mountain differently. This conflict shows that science is not always easy and lends this episode a human touch.

The episode also presents some cutting-edge technology, such as LiDAR, which is being used to measure the heights of mountains. LiDAR is a remote sensing technology that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure distances between mountains' surface and the equipment. The show highlights its advantages and how it provides a more accurate measurement of heights, making it an essential tool in studying and understanding mountains.

The episode also features Apa Sherpa, who holds the world record for the most climbs up Mount Everest. Apa, along with Dr. Baker Perry, an expert in remote sensing technology, embarks on a journey to measure Mount Everest’s height using the latest technology. The show highlights the struggle, risks, and technical difficulty that these scientists have to go through to obtain accurate measurements of mountaintops.

The episode explores how Mount Everest is growing taller over time due to tectonic activities and other geological activities. The show presents some fascinating scientific evidence and studies by researchers, such as Isamu Toda, a Japanese seismologist who has been examining the Himalayas for many years. He analyses how the number of minor earthquakes in the region can lead to changes in height. The episode also shows how GRAIL, Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory, NASA’s spacecraft, is being used to show how gravity can help measure how much water is stored in the aquifers below the Everest region and how it impacts the height of the mountain.

The crux of the episode revolves around the question: Is the height of Mount Everest increasing? The episode shows and presents various methods used to measure and validate the mountain’s height. It goes on to show how scientists are collaborating and building new standards to come to a conclusion worldwide, to end the discrepancies between measuring heights. The episode also draws a comparison of various peaks worldwide – some taller than Everest – but lesser-known, and their varying heights which draw attention to the magnificence of lesser-known peaks.

Overall, the episode offers an insightful and comprehensive journey to measure the height of the world's highest mountain. It presents some of the cutting-edge technology, conflicts between scientists, and a fascinating history of how mankind have tried to measure the height of Everest over the past century. The episode offers a mix of science, technology, and a human touch, making it a great watch for anyone interested in science, geography and nature.