Ep 1. Eclipse Over America

On August 21, 2017, millions of people across the United States gathered to witness a rare and incredible astronomical event: a total solar eclipse. In the first episode of NOVA's 46th season, entitled "Eclipse Over America," viewers are taken on a journey through the science, history, and cultural significance of solar eclipses.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the concept of eclipses and how they occur. With the help of stunning visualizations and expert commentary, the program explains how the moon can position itself perfectly in between the Earth and the Sun, creating a shadow that blocks out the sun's light and casts a dark silhouette on the ground below.

Despite the incredible science behind eclipses, the episode delves deeper into the cultural and historical significance of these events. Throughout human history, solar eclipses have been viewed as omens or symbols of significant events. The program explores how ancient civilizations like the Maya and the Greeks viewed eclipses and how these beliefs have evolved over time.

As the episode moves forward, it focuses on the 2017 total solar eclipse that journeyed across the United States. With unprecedented access to scientists, enthusiasts, and people from all walks of life, the program captures the excitement and anticipation leading up to the event.

Viewers are introduced to people like Carmen, a fifth-grade teacher who brought her students from New York City to Tennessee to witness the eclipse, or William, a Navajo astronomer who shares his cultural perspective on the event. Along the way, viewers learn about the science behind what was happening, including the role of the moon's shadow and the corona.

The episode also covers how scientists were using the eclipse as an opportunity to conduct experiments and collect data. From studying the sun's corona to measuring the Earth's ionosphere, the eclipse provided a wealth of scientific information that can be used to better understand our planet and the universe as a whole.

In addition to the scientific and cultural aspects of the event, "Eclipse Over America" also covers the logistics of how people were able to view the eclipse safely. With millions of people expected to view the event, safety was a top priority, and the episode explores the many ways in which people were able to safely view the eclipse, from wearing special glasses to using telescopes and other equipment.

Overall, "Eclipse Over America" is an engaging and informative exploration of one of the most significant astronomical events of our time. Combining stunning visuals, expert commentary, and personal stories, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the science, history, and cultural importance of solar eclipses and the excitement and anticipation leading up to the 2017 event.