BBC Inside Science

Finding Tunnels

Dec 28, 2023

Scientists explain the science of detecting tunnels and mines from above ground. The phenomenon of Northern Lights and how it can be seen in the UK. Assessment of countries' progress in climate commitments and highlights the UK's stance. Updates on the UK Covid-19 Inquiry including key government ministers giving evidence.

28:28

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Quick takeaways

Identification of tunnels and mines underground can be done through techniques like remote sensing and ground-penetrating radar, but it requires a careful and phased approach.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are caused by solar particles interacting with the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere, and they can be observed by checking the Northern Lights forecast and finding a dark location away from city lights.

Deep dives

Main Ideas, Key Points, and Insights

- The podcast episode discusses the techniques and tools available for locating tunnels and mines underground. Dr. Jamie Pringle, a forensic geoscientist, explains the importance of tunnel and mine detection, such as in brownfield site developments and road safety. He mentions methods like remote sensing using satellites and aircraft, ground-penetrating radar, and gravity anomalies to identify underground structures. Dr. Pringle emphasizes the challenges and limitations of these techniques and the need for a careful and phased approach to finding hidden tunnels and mines.

- Katie Herlingshore, a space physics researcher, explains the nature and causes of the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis. She describes how solar particles from the sun interact with the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere, leading to the glowing phenomena we observe. She also shares tips for observing the Northern Lights, such as checking the Northern Lights forecast and finding a dark location away from city lights.

- The podcast briefly covers the COP 28 climate conference and the progress made by different countries in addressing climate change. The UK's position is described as "modelled," with criticisms of policy changes that have slowed the transition to clean energy. China is acknowledged for its efforts in reducing emissions, while the US is praised for its clean energy manufacturing projects. India is noted for its progress in installing solar and renewable energy, but still faces challenges with fossil fuel generation. Brazil's efforts in addressing deforestation and the protection of the Amazon are questioned. The podcast highlights the divisive nature of these climate change efforts and the need for ongoing action and innovation.

Introduction

2min

Locating Underground Tunnels and Mines

5min

Working Together: Geoscientists and Forensic Scientists in Crime Scene Investigation

2min

Building a Complete Picture and the Phenomenon of the Northern Lights

7min

Assessing International Progress and Who's Hot and Who's Not on Climate Change

7min

Impacts of Rising Sea Levels and COVID-19 Inquiry Testimonies

6min

Upcoming Evidence and Podcast Recommendation

2min

Tunnels have been the focus of much attention this week as the war in Gaza continues and 41 workers were rescued in India, after 17 days trapped underground. Forensic geoscientists Jamie Pringle and Ruth Morgan explain the science behind identifying what’s beneath the surface, from above ground, and how you might work out what a tunnel is being used for.

This winter, the Northern Lights are going to be the most spectacular they’ve been in twenty years. With the aurora borealis already appearing as far south as Stonehenge, Katie Herlingshaw, a space physicsist from the University Centre in Svalbard, explains what’s happening.

The Conference of the Parties, or COP28, begins in Dubai. BBC’s Georgina Rannard gives us the rundown of which countries are the best and worst for sticking to climate goals and assesses the UK’s own standing after Rishi Sunak rowed back on key climate commitments earlier this year.  

The UK Covid-19 Inquiry hears from some of the most important ministers this week as key government ministers give evidence. BBC Health Reporter Jim Reed gives us the update.

Presenter:  Marnie Chesterton Producers: Hannah Robins, Louise Orchard and Hannah Fisher Editor: Richard Collings Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth

BBC Inside Science is produced in collaboration with the Open University.

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