NOVA: Arctic Ghost Ship

Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at 10 p.m. on KPBS TV / Stream now with KPBS Passport!

NOVA “Arctic Ghost Ship,” presents an exclusive breakthrough in the greatest unsolved mystery in Arctic exploration. In 1845, British explorer Sir John Franklin set off to chart the elusive Northwest Passage, commanding 128 men in two robust and well-stocked Royal Navy ships, the Erebus and Terror. They were never heard from again. Now, a Canadian team discovers one of Franklin’s lost ships — a vital clue to the fate of the ill-starred expedition.

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The Parcs Canada divers explore the shipwreck of HMS Erbus for the first time.

Courtesy of ©Parks Canada / Parcs Canada

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Sonar images clearly identify the shipwreck of HMS Erbus.

Courtesy of ©Parks Canada / Parcs Canada

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The Parcs Canada divers explore the shipwreck of HMS Erbus for the first time.

Courtesy of ©Parks Canada / Parcs Canada

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The Parcs Canada divers explore the shipwreck of HMS Erbus for the first time.

Courtesy of ©Parks Canada / Parcs Canada

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Parts of HMS Erbus are still clearly identifiable in the ship wreck, including these two ship canons.

Courtesy of ©Parks Canada / Parcs Canada

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The intact bell from HMS Erbus was recovered from the shipwreck and preserved.

Courtesy of ©Parks Canada / Parcs Canada

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Credits: A NOVA production by Lion Television with 90th Parallel for NOVA/WGBH Boston in association with CBC Canada/Radio Canada and Channel 4. Explore the science behind the headlines in PBS’ premier science series. With compelling stories and spectacular visuals, NOVA programs demystify science and technology for viewers of all ages and spotlight people involved in scientific pursuits.