NOVA Season 4 Episode 3 The Doomsday Asteroid

In the NOVA season 4 episode 3 titled "The Doomsday Asteroid," scientists explore the potential threat of asteroid collisions with Earth and what can be done to prevent them. The episode begins by highlighting the most famous asteroid impact in Earth's history, which occurred 65 million years ago and led to the extinction of the dinosaurs. Since then, there have been numerous small asteroid impacts on Earth, but experts fear that a larger asteroid could cause catastrophic damage to our planet.

The episode then discusses the discovery of a 10-kilometer asteroid orbiting the sun that has been identified as a potential threat to Earth. The asteroid, named Apophis, was first discovered in 2004 and initially thought to have a high probability of colliding with Earth in 2029. However, further observations showed that it will pass at a safe distance, but in 2036, there is still a possibility it could collide with the Earth.

Scientists at NASA and other organizations around the world are studying Apophis and other potentially hazardous asteroids to better understand their composition and trajectory. They are also exploring different methods to deflect an asteroid from its collision course with Earth. One method is to use a kinetic impactor, which involves slamming a spacecraft into the asteroid at high speed to change its trajectory. Another method is to use a gravity tractor, which involves placing a spacecraft in close proximity to the asteroid to alter its trajectory with gravitational forces.

The episode also discusses the role of international cooperation and collaboration in mitigating the threat of asteroid collisions. NASA has been working with other space agencies, including the European Space Agency and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, to launch joint missions to study and potentially deflect hazardous asteroids.

Throughout the episode, experts explain the science behind asteroid detection and deflection, while also highlighting the challenges and uncertainty involved in predicting the behavior of these celestial objects. The episode emphasizes the importance of continued research and funding to better prepare for a potential asteroid impact that could have devastating consequences for our planet.

"The Doomsday Asteroid" is a thought-provoking episode that effectively conveys the urgency of preparing for a potential asteroid impact. The episode's use of visuals, including computer simulations, adds to the viewer's understanding of the scientific concepts presented. Overall, the episode offers a clear and compelling account of the threat of asteroid collisions and the steps being taken to prevent them.