PBS Space Time Season 2018 Episode 30 Is There Life on Mars?

In the 30th episode of the 2018 season of the PBS Space Time series, the question "Is There Life on Mars?" is explored in-depth. This episode dives into the scientific evidence and theories surrounding the possibility of life on the Red Planet.

The episode begins by discussing the history of the search for life on Mars, starting with the first scientific missions to the planet in the 1960s. From there, the episode covers the various missions and discoveries that have led scientists to question the possibility of life on Mars.

One key area of focus is the discovery of water on Mars. The episode delves into how water is necessary for life as we know it, and how the discovery of it on Mars has led scientists to believe that microbial life could potentially exist under the planet's surface.

Another point the episode covers is the different types of Martian environments where life could potentially thrive. From the polar ice caps to the ancient lakebeds, there are several areas on Mars that scientists believe could support some form of life.

However, the episode also explores the challenges and difficulties of searching for life on Mars. There are several factors, such as radiation exposure and extreme temperatures, that make it difficult for any life forms to exist on the planet's surface. Additionally, much of the evidence for life on Mars is still only circumstantial, and there is still much we do not know about the planet.

The episode also discusses the efforts being made to search for life on Mars in the present day. This includes current missions such as NASA's Perseverance rover, which will be searching for signs of microbial life, as well as future missions that are in the planning stages.

Throughout the episode, the scientific evidence and theories are presented in an engaging and accessible format, with easy-to-follow explanations and helpful visual aids. By the end of the episode, viewers will have a better understanding of the possibility of life on Mars, as well as the challenges involved in searching for it.

Overall, "Is There Life on Mars?" is a fascinating and thought-provoking episode of PBS Space Time that will appeal to anyone interested in space exploration and astrobiology.