Watch Earth Story

Earth Story is a 6-part documentary series that premiered on BBC 2 in 1998. It featured geologist Aubrey Manning, physicist Vincent Courtillot, and philosopher John Dewey as presenters. The show aimed to showcase the geological history of Earth and how it shaped the planet we live on today.

The first episode, titled "The Time Travellers," explored the history of Earth from its formation 4.6 billion years ago to the emergence of life 3.5 billion years ago. The show explained how the Earth's early atmosphere was hostile to early life forms, and how volcanic eruptions, meteorite impacts, and plate tectonics shaped the planet's geography.

The second episode, "The Ancestors," delved into the emergence of life and the evolution of different species. From the first microbial life to the Cambrian explosion 541 million years ago, the presenters discussed how life evolved and adapted to changing environments over time.

The third episode, "The Crystal Planet," was focused on the Earth's geology and the processes that formed the rocks and minerals that make up the planet's crust. The show explored the formation of mountains, volcanoes, and geological structures like waterfalls and caves.

In the fourth episode, "The Tectonic Plates," the presenters examined the theory of plate tectonics and how it explains various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, continental drift, and the formation of oceans and continents.

The fifth episode, "The Ring of Fire," discussed the Earth's most active seismic and volcanic regions, including the Pacific Ring of Fire. The show explored the devastating effects of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes on human populations and the planet's ecology.

The final episode, "The Climate Puzzle," was dedicated to the Earth's changing climate and how it affected the planet over millions of years. The presenters discussed the causes of ice ages, the impact of human activity on climate change, and the future implications for the planet.

Earth Story was a groundbreaking documentary series that received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling and stunning visuals. It presented complex geological concepts in an accessible and entertaining way, and the presenters' expertise and enthusiasm for the subject matter were a significant factor in the show's success.

Overall, Earth Story is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of our planet and how it shaped the world we live in today. It has stood the test of time as one of the BBC's most significant documentary series, even after more than two decades since its original screening.