The Planets

Prepare for a breathtaking journey to the far frontiers of scientific knowledge about our cosmic neighborhood. Produced by A&E in association with the BBC, the Planets invites you to join this definitive grand tour through the unearthly wonders of our solar system. In this spectacular, comprehensive presentation, the Planets draws on consultations with over a thousand leading astronomers, engineers, scientists and astronauts. Featuring seldom-seen NASA archival footage, awe-inspiring imagery from instruments like the Hubble space telescope and stunning computer graphics and special effects, this unprecedented series explores both the alien beauty of our local space environment and the extraordinary technology that enables US to unlock it's secrets. Tracing our exploration of the heavens from it's earliest days to the present, the Planets reveals a story of personal achievement and technological triumph. It's a story seen through the eyes of dozens of leading authorities on the leading edge of planetary exploration - and on both sides of the high-stakes Cold War race into space. From our first glimpse of the dark side of the moon to the first high-risk dash through the rings of Saturn; from the search for extraterrestrial life to humanity's possible future on alien worlds, it's an epic journey of cosmic discovery, amazement and adventure... like nothing on Earth.