Ep 5. Making Stuff Colder

Making Stuff Colder, the fifth episode of NOVA’s 41st season, explores the frontiers of cold science and technology from cryotherapy and cryonics to materials science and superconductors. Host David Pogue goes on a journey to learn about the latest breakthroughs in using cold to power and transform our world.

The episode begins with Pogue visiting one of the coldest places on earth, the McMurdo Station in Antarctica. There, he meets scientists who are studying the properties of ice and the effects of climate change on the polar regions. Pogue also gets a chance to try out some extreme cold survival gear and experiences the chilling effects of Antarctic winds.

From Antarctica, Pogue travels to New York to learn about the world of cryotherapy. He meets up with a group of athletes who use cryotherapy as a way to speed up their recovery after tough workouts. They immerse themselves in chambers filled with liquid nitrogen for a few minutes, bringing their skin temperature down to -200°F. Pogue tries this out for himself and experiences the intense rush of endorphins that comes with it.

Next, Pogue travels to Arizona to visit one of the largest cryogenic storage facilities in the world. Here, he learns about the science of cryonics and meets scientists who are working on developing the technology to store human bodies and brains in liquid nitrogen in the hopes of preserving them for future resuscitation. Pogue also meets with a woman who has made arrangements to have her entire body frozen after she dies, in the hopes of one day being brought back to life.

The episode then shifts its focus to materials science and the quest to make things colder. Pogue heads to MIT to meet with a team of scientists who are developing materials that can absorb heat and keep things colder for longer periods of time. He also visits a company in California that is working on superconductors—materials that can conduct electricity with no resistance at extremely low temperatures. Pogue learns about the potential use of superconductors in everything from MRI machines to levitating trains.

Finally, Pogue returns to Antarctica to witness an impressive feat of cold science: the creation of a functioning airplane made entirely out of ice. He meets with the engineers and scientists who helped design and construct the iceplane, and he gets to witness its successful maiden flight.

Throughout the episode, Pogue proves to be a curious and enthusiastic guide to the world of cold science and technology. Whether he’s immersing himself in frigid chambers or marveling at the feats of materials science, he brings a sense of wonder and excitement to his exploration of the subject. Making Stuff Colder demonstrates the incredible potential of cold science, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the breakthroughs that are shaping our world today.