NOVA Season 30 Episode 12 Mountain of Ice

In the 12th episode of season 30 of NOVA, titled "Mountain of Ice," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the largest body of ice outside of Antarctica and Greenland: the Columbia Glacier. Located in Alaska's Prince William Sound, Columbia Glacier covers an area of over 1,200 square miles and is one of the fastest moving glaciers in the world.

The episode starts by showing stunning aerial shots of the glacier and its surroundings, highlighting the immense size and grandeur of this natural wonder. Viewers are then introduced to a team of scientists who have been studying the glacier for years to understand its behavior and the impact of climate change on it.

The episode reveals how the Columbia Glacier has been rapidly retreating since the 1980s, losing an alarming amount of ice each year. The science team explains that this is due to the rising temperatures caused by climate change, which have led to warmer waters in the ocean surrounding the glacier. This, in turn, has caused the glacier to melt from underneath, leading to its rapid retreat.

To get a closer look at the glacier and its movements, the scientists use a combination of satellite imaging, underwater robots, and drones. They collect data that allows them to model the glacier's behavior and better understand the processes that are causing its retreat. The scientists also take samples of the ocean water around the glacier to analyze its temperature and composition.

Throughout the episode, viewers learn about the different types of ice present in the glacier and how they behave. For instance, the team explains that the ice on the surface of the glacier can move much slower than the ice deep within, creating a complex system of flow. They also show how icebergs calve off the glacier's front, creating large chunks of ice that float away and become hazards for ships.

The episode also discusses the impact that the retreating glacier has had on the local ecosystem and communities. The melting of the glacier has raised the sea level in the region, affecting the local fishing industry and wildlife. The scientists show how they are working with local stakeholders to better understand the impact of the glacier's retreat and how to mitigate its effects.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers are left with a sense of awe at the stunning beauty of the Columbia Glacier, as well as a newfound appreciation for the importance of studying and understanding our planet's changing climate. The scientists' work on the glacier is a testament to the critical role that science plays in helping us learn about and protect our environment.

Overall, "Mountain of Ice" is a beautifully shot and informative episode of NOVA that takes us on a fascinating journey to explore one of the most significant natural wonders of our planet while shedding light on the pressing issue of climate change.