Ep 2. Who Killed the Red Baron?

During World War I, German fighter pilot Manfred von Richthofen, also known as the Red Baron, was one of the most remarkable and successful pilots of his time, with over 80 confirmed victories. However, on April 21, 1918, during a routine reconnaissance mission over the Western Front, he was shot down and killed. The question that has puzzled historians for over a century is, who killed the Red Baron?

NOVA season 31 episode 2, titled "Who Killed the Red Baron?", explores this mystery with the help of modern technology and expert analysis. The episode begins by providing historical context, explaining the significance of the Red Baron and his impact on the war. Using archival footage and photographs, the show paints a vivid picture of the time period and the conditions in which von Richthofen flew.

The episode then moves on to examine the various theories surrounding the Red Baron's death, starting with the widely accepted idea that he was brought down by Australian machine-gunner Sergeant Cedric Popkin. To test this theory, the NOVA team sets up a realistic simulation of the air battle using a vintage plane and a replica of the Red Baron's Fokker triplane. In this simulation, they evaluate the plausibility of Popkin's claim and whether it aligns with the available evidence.

The show also explores alternative theories, including the possibility that the Red Baron was hit by friendly fire from his own troops on the ground. To investigate this theory, the NOVA team conducts a ballistic analysis of the bullet fragments recovered from the Red Baron's body and compares them to the ammunition used by both British and Australian troops at the time.

In addition, the episode explores the role of other pilots who were in the vicinity of the Red Baron at the time of his death, including Canadian pilot Captain Roy Brown. Using both historical documents and modern computer graphics, the NOVA team reconstructs the air battle from multiple perspectives, giving viewers a unique insight into the complex and chaotic nature of aerial combat during World War I.

One of the highlights of the episode is the expert analysis of retired Air Vice Marshal Johnnie Johnson, one of the most successful Allied pilots of the war. Johnson provides valuable insights into the tactics and strategies used by both Allied and German pilots, as well as the challenges they faced during combat.

Overall, NOVA season 31 episode 2 is an in-depth and engaging exploration of one of the most enduring mysteries of World War I. Through a combination of historical context, expert analysis, and modern technology, the episode provides a balanced and nuanced perspective on the various theories surrounding the death of the Red Baron.