NOVA Season 32 Episode 14 Saving the National Treasures

In season 32 episode 14 of NOVA titled "Saving the National Treasures," viewers are taken on a journey exploring the efforts of conservationists and historians working to restore and protect cultural heritage sites and artifacts across the United States. The episode showcases the hard work of preservationists and how they are using cutting-edge technology to save some of the nation's most beloved historical treasures.

The episode starts by exploring the devastating aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey and Maria on the nation's cultural heritage sites in Texas and Puerto Rico, respectively. The damage range from flooded museums to out-of-commission planes, and it becomes immediately clear that preservationists have their work cut out for them. The episode dives into how these unique monuments and structures, which have been instrumental in shaping America's identity, were put at risk because of the natural disasters.

The episode then shifts its focus to highlight the preservationist’s efforts to restore the affected sites with the help of groundbreaking technology. Researchers are experimenting with advanced 3D scanning and visualization technology to document damaged areas and recreate what these historic sites looked like before they were destroyed. The team demonstrates how they use lasers to create 3D models of artifacts to not only restore them but also to offer a more profound understanding of how they were initially created and formed.

One of the main highlights of the episode is the restoration of the National Museum of Natural History's iconic exhibit, the Ocean Hall. The Ocean Hall is a massive exhibit that showcases a diverse range of marine life, and it's an essential part of the National Museum of Natural History. When the exhibit falls victim to the ravages of time, and the exhibits become out of date, the project felt nearly impossible to undertake. The work was extensive, but preservationists used incredibly innovative technology to restore the exhibit, and modernized it to capture the amazement for future generations.

The episode also takes a look at some of the challenges preservationists face when protecting national treasures from human activities like looting. Viewers are given a tour of the Antiquities Coalition, which collaborates with governments, museums, and law enforcement agencies to keep illegal trafficking of artifacts in check. The episode also features experts who talk about the importance of cultural heritage sites in shaping who we are, and the significance of protecting them for future generations.

Throughout the episode, the viewer is treated to a visual delight as they explore various artifacts, exhibits, and national heritage sites. The narration is well-paced and engaging, making the viewer want to follow up on the backstory of some of the restored artifacts and heritage sites showcased in the episode. Time and time again, the preservationists' passionate work is highlighted and inspiring, leaving every viewer with an appreciation for our collective history and the need to protect it for future generations.

Overall, NOVA's season 32 episode 14 "Saving the National Treasures" is a captivating and informative documentary that follows preservationists and their efforts to restore some of the United States' most important cultural heritage sites. The documentary highlights the importance of culture and history and how modern technology is being used to protect these national treasures. The narration and visuals are captivating, leaving viewers with a sense of urgency to maintain these valuable assets.