Episode

The Universe: Star of Bethlehem

Name: The Universe: Star of Bethlehem
Released: 2014-03-22
Duration: 45 min
Cast: David Ackroyd, Erik Thompson, Michio Kaku, David Brin, Alan Guth

The UniverseSeason 82014-03-22

Overview

What was the astronomical reality behind the star that, according to the Gospel of Matthew, guided the Magi to the young Jesus? This episode examines almost 20 centuries of theories, including meteors, novae, supernovae and comets…but is the truth to be found in a combination of astronomy–and astrology? Recent theories suggest that the "star" was the planet Jupiter in a series of conjunctions with other planets, stars and constellations, and that these conjunctions were interpreted by the Magi–astrologers and priests of the Zoroastrian religion–as heralding the birth of the Jewish Messiah.

Details

Series: The Universe
Season: Season 8
Episode: Episode 4
Air date: 2014-03-22
Runtime: 45 min

Episode context

Star of Bethlehem is Episode 4 in Season 8 of The Universe. It aired on 2014-03-22. The runtime is 45 min.

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Episode 3: Heavenly Destruction 2014-03-15 | 45 min Sodom and Gomorrah–a terrifying Biblical tale of two cities incinerated by a hail of fire and brimstone. Was this a fantastic fable, or an actual apocalyptic disaster? Astronomers, archeologists and biblical scholars investigate the possible science behind the myth. Two separate archeological sites along the Dead Sea claim to hold the remains of the actual sin cities. Newly discovered ancient artifacts may even hold the secrets to their destruction? Could an asteroid be responsible for the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah?

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