Ep 6. The Invisible World

The National Geographic 125th Anniversary Photography Collection is a stunning showcase of some of the most groundbreaking and awe-inspiring images in the history of photography. In season 1 episode 6, entitled "The Invisible World," viewers are taken on a journey into a realm that is typically beyond the scope of our senses.

The episode explores the world of the small, from the microscopic to the subatomic. From the intricate details of a snowflake to the bizarre and otherworldly landscape of electron microscopy, we are given a glimpse into a world that is often invisible to the naked eye.

The first segment of the episode focuses on the work of photographer David Liittschwager. Liittschwager is known for his ability to capture the essence of complex ecosystems in a single frame, often using a gridded frame to photograph individual organisms in a specific area. In "The Invisible World," we see Liittschwager's work up close, examining the intricate world of lichen and moss.

The episode then moves on to explore the world of microbes, showcasing the work of Rose-Lynn Fisher. Fisher's photography captures the elegance and beauty of these tiny organisms, from the swirling colors of bacteria to the delicate tendrils of fungi. Fisher's work is a testament to the incredible diversity of life on our planet.

Next, the episode delves into the realm of electron microscopy. Using highly specialized equipment, scientists are able to capture detailed images of cells and molecules, revealing a world that is both strange and fascinating. From the intricate structures of proteins to the strange and unfamiliar world of viruses, electron microscopy gives us a glimpse into a world that is essentially invisible to us.

In the final segment of the episode, we are taken into the world of subatomic particles. Using photography and computer-generated models, scientists are able to create stunning images of particles such as electrons and quarks. These images are not just fascinating from a scientific perspective, but also reveal a sense of beauty and elegance that is unexpected in the realm of particle physics.

Overall, "The Invisible World" is a stunning and thought-provoking episode that showcases the incredible diversity and complexity of our world, from the small to the impossibly tiny. Through the lenses of some of the world's most talented and innovative photographers, we are given a glimpse into a world that is often hidden from view, revealing a sense of wonder and awe that is truly incredible.