Watch Ancient Earth

Ancient Earth is a fascinating documentary series that takes viewers on a journey back in time to explore the evolution of our planet and the incredible creatures that once roamed its surface. Hosted by paleontologist Salvatore Vecchio, this six-part series uncovers the mysteries of the past using cutting-edge technology, stunning visual effects, and expert analysis from leading scientists.

In the series premiere, "Birth of a Continent," viewers are transported back 4.6 billion years to witness the creation of Earth itself. Through stunning imagery and expert insight, Vecchio reveals how the planet formed from a swirling cloud of gas and dust, and how the gradual cooling and solidification of the Earth's crust gave rise to both the land and the oceans. Along the way, he explores the impact of asteroids and other cataclysmic events that shaped the early Earth and set the stage for the evolution of life.

Subsequent episodes focus on different periods in Earth's history, each exploring a different aspect of the planet and the life that once inhabited it. In "Rise of the Mammals," for example, we journey back 65 million years to witness the aftermath of the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs and allowed small, furry mammals to take over the planet. Through expert analysis and CGI reconstructions, viewers get a glimpse of what life was like for early mammals, from the towering Indricotherium to the tiny shrew-like Purgatorius.

Other episodes explore topics ranging from the emergence of complex life forms in "Giant Insects and Weird Sea Monsters," to the evolution of birds in "Dawn of the Feathered Dinosaurs," to the rise of human civilization in "The Human Era." Throughout the series, viewers are treated to stunning visuals and expert analysis that help bring the past to life.

One thing that really sets Ancient Earth apart is its use of cutting-edge technology to recreate the creatures and landscapes of the past. From expertly rendered CGI models of long-extinct species to immersive virtual reality simulations, the show uses the latest in digital technology to transport viewers back in time and help them see the world as it once was. At the same time, the series never loses sight of the human aspect of paleontology, showing the scientists and experts who are working tirelessly to piece together the puzzle of our planet's history.

One standout episode is "The Great Extinction," in which Vecchio examines the mass extinction event that wiped out 96% of all species on Earth 252 million years ago. Through interviews with experts and immersive CGI reconstructions, viewers get a sense of just how catastrophic this event was, and the ways in which it reshaped the planet and paved the way for new forms of life to emerge.

Overall, Ancient Earth is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in paleontology, geology, or the natural world. From the formation of the Earth to the rise of human civilization, this series takes viewers on a journey through time, offering incredible insights into the world that once was, and the creatures that once roamed its surface. With stunning visuals, expert analysis, and a keen sense of storytelling, Ancient Earth is a true masterpiece of documentary filmmaking.

Ancient Earth is a series that ran for 2 seasons (8 episodes) between March 9, 2017 and on CuriosityStream