Secret of the Pyramid (broadcast Friday, November 21st, 2008)

Pyramids as seen from the International Space Station. Astronaut photograph ISS007-E-12915 was taken August 18, 2003 by Cynthia A.

We know who built the Great Pyramid of Egypt, but we still don't know HOW it was done. In this segment, we'll talk about theories regarding the construction of Egypt's great pyramids. One new idea says that a ramp inside the pyramid may have been the key to its construction. Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.

Guests

Bob Brier
Co-Author, "The Secret of the Great Pyramid: How One Man's Obsession Led to the Solution of Ancient Egypt's Greatest Mystery," (Smithsonian Books, 2009)
Senior Research Fellow, Long Island University
Host, Great Egyptian Series (The Learning Channel)
Long Island, New York

Related Links

• National Geographic: Great Pyramid Mystery to Be Solved by Hidden Room?
• National Geographic: Unlocking the Great Pyramid

Segment produced by:Annette Heist

Image: A late 1800's trip to the Great Pyramid.
Library of Congress image. Maison Bonfils photographer.

Image: Ramps inside the Great Pyramid.
from "The Secret of the Great Pyramid," used with permission.

Elsewhere on Sciencefriday.com

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• History of Science and Technology
• Archaeology
• Civil Engineering