PBS Space Time Season 2016 Episode 40 The First Humans on Mars

PBS Space Time season 2016 episode 40 titled "The First Humans on Mars" explores the possibilities and challenges of human colonization on the red planet. The episode begins by highlighting the reasons behind the quest for sending humans to Mars and the potential benefits they can reap through their presence.

The host explains that one of the main reasons for sending humans to Mars is to understand more about our origins as human beings and the possibility of finding extraterrestrial life. The episode then delves into the technical aspects of sending humans to Mars and the challenges faced by the aerospace industry. The host explains how new technologies have been developed to overcome these challenges, including new propulsion systems and radiation shielding.

The episode also highlights the importance of establishing a sustainable habitat on Mars for long-term human survival. This includes setting up a self-sufficient colony that can produce its own food and water. The episode goes on to explain some possible ways that this might be done, such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and soil-based agriculture. The host also discusses how the environment of Mars is different from Earth and how growing crops on Mars would require modifications to farming techniques.

Another major challenge of human colonization of Mars is the physical and psychological health of the astronauts involved. The episode talks about the potential health hazards faced by astronauts on long-duration space missions, including exposure to radiation, isolation, and the lack of gravity. The host explains how scientists are developing new techniques to mitigate these risks, including exercise regimes and psychological counseling.

The episode then goes on to discuss the social and political challenges of establishing a human colony on Mars. The host talks about the potential for conflict between different nations competing for resources and prestige on the red planet. Additionally, the episode explores the ethical dilemmas associated with colonization, such as the rights of the indigenous Martian environment and the potential impact of human colonization on extraterrestrial life.

Overall, PBS Space Time season 2016 episode 40 offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the scientific, technical, and ethical challenges involved in sending humans to Mars and establishing a human colony on the red planet. The host's enthusiastic presentation style and use of visually-stunning graphics and animations make the episode both accessible and informative for viewers of all ages and backgrounds.