PBS Space Time Season 2017 Episode 45 Extinction by Gamma-Ray Burst

PBS Space Time season 2017 episode 45, entitled "Extinction by Gamma-Ray Burst," presents a fascinating discussion on the potential catastrophic impact of a gamma-ray burst (GRB) on life on Earth. The episode begins by providing a comprehensive overview of what GRBs are and how they occur, highlighting their incredible destructive force and their potential to obliterate entire planets.

The first section of the episode focuses on the different types of GRBs, their sources, and the likelihood of Earth being affected. The audience learns that long GRBs originate from the collapse of massive stars while short GRBs result from the collision of two neutron stars. Although GRBs happen fairly frequently in the universe, the probability of a GRB affecting Earth is relatively low. This is because our planet is situated within the Milky Way galaxy, where most GRBs are directed away from our planet.

However, the episode soon delves into the more alarming possibility that a GRB originating from another galaxy could impact our planet with devastating consequences. Such a cosmic event would lead to the total destruction of the ozone layer and expose all life on Earth to lethal levels of ultraviolet radiation within seconds. The episode explores the long-lasting effects of such a catastrophe on all life on Earth, particularly in the context of mass extinctions and the preservation of the human species.

PBS Space Time follows this exploration with a considerable focus on the history of past mass extinctions on Earth, highlighting how cataclysmic events such as the Chicxulub impact led to the extinction of the dinosaurs. These past extinctions are used as a model to help understand how the Earth's atmosphere, climate and ecosystems would react to a GRB event and how life on Earth would be affected. The episode draws parallels between past extinction events and the potential apocalyptic aftermath of a GRB impact, emphasizing the importance of understanding the science behind both to prepare for future events.

The final segment focuses on how humanity can or should prepare for such a disaster, particularly as there is currently no method for detecting and deflecting a GRB. The episode provides several options for addressing the potential threat, for instance, the creation of an artificial atmosphere that could provide protection from the GRB's radiation pulses. The PBS Space Time crew discusses the ethical dilemmas that would come with such a plan, and how different nations may react and implement such initiatives should a GRB event become a near-future reality.

In conclusion, PBS Space Time season 2017 episode 45, "Extinction by Gamma-Ray Burst," provides a thorough and thought-provoking discussion on a fascinating topic. The episode presents scientific facts, theories, and models to explore the catastrophic implications of a GRB event on Earth. Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a captivating journey of discovery that forces us to contemplate our place in the universe and our responsibility in preparing and safeguarding ourselves and our planet for the future.