NOVA Season 7 Episode 8 Termites to Telescopes

In season 7 episode 8 of NOVA, titled "Termites to Telescopes," the focus is on a creature that is often overlooked and underestimated: the termite. Through scientific investigations and experiments, viewers are taken on a journey that explores how the termite's behavior and ability to create complex structures could inspire breakthrough technology and design.

The episode begins with a brief overview of termites and their role in the ecosystem. From here, the focus shifts to scientific research that is attempting to understand how termites are able to build their intricate and sturdy mounds. Viewers are introduced to Dr. Rupert Soar, a bio-inspired design engineer, who has been studying the termite mound for over a decade in search of design solutions for buildings and structures that need to withstand extreme conditions.

The show then delves into the fascinating world of termite behavior and social organization. Viewers learn that each termite plays a specific role in the colony, from foragers to soldiers to builders. The episode showcases how complex communication and cooperation among termites create the perfect conditions for mound building.

Further exploration of termite mounds reveals that they act as natural air conditioning systems, regulating temperature, and humidity levels in order to maintain optimal conditions for the colony's survival. Scientists are using this knowledge to develop more energy-efficient buildings that can regulate temperature and humidity without relying on traditional HVAC systems.

The episode then takes viewers to the world of optics, where they meet Dr. Eric Tremblay, who is studying the compound eyes of insects in search of new ways to improve telescopes and cameras. Tremblay's research has led to breakthroughs in lens design, as he is able to create lenses with greater light-gathering abilities and wider fields of view.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers are left with the idea that inspiration for breakthrough technology can come from the most unlikely sources. Through scientific investigations of creatures like termites, humans can gain knowledge that leads to innovation and progress in fields such as engineering and optics.

Overall, season 7 episode 8 of NOVA is a thought-provoking exploration of the potential applications of bio-inspired design. By highlighting the often-overlooked termite and its remarkable abilities, the episode encourages viewers to consider how innovative solutions can be found in the natural world.