The Universe: Ancient Mysteries Solved Season 1 Episode 7 The Inner Planets: Mercury & Venus

The Universe: Ancient Mysteries Solved season 1 episode 7, titled "The Inner Planets: Mercury & Venus," explores the two closest planets to the Sun in our solar system. Hosted by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, this episode delves into the mysteries surrounding Mercury and Venus and how they differ from Earth.

The episode begins by discussing Mercury, the smallest planet in our solar system and the closest planet to the Sun. With temperatures reaching up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and dropping to -290 degrees Fahrenheit at night, Mercury is a harsh and unforgiving planet. The episode explains how this is due to its proximity to the Sun, with the extreme heat causing the planet to have a metallic core and a surface covered in craters, cliffs, and even frozen water.

The episode also explores the challenges that come with studying Mercury. Because of its proximity to the Sun and its small size, it has been difficult for scientists to get a clear picture of the planet. However, the episode details how NASA's Messenger spacecraft was able to provide the first complete map of Mercury's surface, revealing a world that has been shaped by volcanic activity and meteorite impacts.

Moving on to Venus, the episode examines how it is often referred to as Earth's twin due to its similar size and composition. However, the episode reveals how the similarities end there, with Venus being a completely inhospitable planet. The atmosphere on Venus is made up mostly of carbon dioxide and sulfuric acid, creating a runaway greenhouse effect that results in temperatures that can exceed 900 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it the hottest planet in our solar system, despite being the second closest to the Sun.

The episode explains how Venus was once thought to be a more Earth-like planet, with a thick atmosphere that could support life. However, the discovery of its extreme conditions has led scientists to reconsider this theory. The episode also delves into the challenges of exploring Venus, with its thick clouds and extreme conditions making it difficult for spacecrafts to land and study the planet's surface.

Throughout the episode, Tyson and other experts in the field discuss the latest research on Mercury and Venus, and what it means for our understanding of the universe. From discovering how Mercury's magnetic field is created to exploring the possibility of life on Venus, this episode provides a fascinating look into two of the most mysterious planets in our solar system.

Overall, "The Inner Planets: Mercury & Venus" is an informative and engaging episode of The Universe: Ancient Mysteries Solved, providing a deeper understanding of these two planets and the challenges that come with exploring them. Between stunning visuals and expert commentary, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the mysteries of the universe.