The Universe Season 3 Episode 6 Deadly Comets and Meteors

The Universe is an American documentary television series that covers the different aspects of the universe, and in Season 3, episode 6 titled "Deadly Comets and Meteors," the show focuses on one of the most significant threats to our planet - asteroid and comet impacts.

The episode opens with a brief introduction to the impact that a comet or asteroid can have on the planet Earth. We then learn about the early history of meteorite impacts on Earth and how they have played a significant role in the planet's evolution. One such impact caused the extinction of the dinosaurs, which is highlighted in this episode as an example of the catastrophic event that could happen if a comet or asteroid of significant size were to hit Earth.

We then get an introduction to some of the more recent massive impacts such as the Tunguska explosion in 1908 and the Chicxulub impact crater in Mexico, which is believed to be the impact that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. The show takes us to Arizona, where we see firsthand the impact that meteorites have had on the local terrain and how they continue to impact the area.

Next, we learn about NASA's efforts to track and monitor potentially dangerous asteroids and the technology used to do so. We are introduced to scientists who are working on developing a way to deflect an asteroid or comet if it were headed towards Earth. We also learn about NASA's NEOWISE project, which is aimed at discovering and studying the near-Earth asteroids to better understand their composition and potential threat.

The episode then goes on to discuss some of the myths surrounding asteroids and comets, such as the idea that they are harbingers of doom or that we can predict when they will strike. We also learn about some of the dangers of impact events, such as the resulting seismic activity and tsunamis.

Throughout the episode, we are presented with stunning visuals of meteors, asteroids, and comets, including footage of the meteor that exploded over the Russian city of Chelyabinsk in 2013.

Overall, "Deadly Comets and Meteors" is an informative and fascinating episode that delves into the potential hazards that could arise if a large asteroid or comet were to hit the planet. The episode highlights the ongoing efforts of scientists to track and study near-Earth objects and their potential to cause catastrophic events. It is an excellent addition to the season and a must-watch for anyone interested in the universe and the potential threat that it poses to life on Earth.