Ep 2. Earth: Making of a Planet

In National Geographic Documentaries season 2011 episode 2, we delve into the extraordinary story of our planet. "Earth: Making of a Planet" takes a deep dive into the geological and meteorological forces that shaped Earth into what it is today. From the vast primordial soup, which gave birth to the first life forms billions of years ago, to the cataclysmic events that wiped out entire species of animals, this episode tells the awe-inspiring story of how our planet came to be.

The episode begins with Earth's early formation, over 4.5 billion years ago. We see how a collision with a Mars-sized object sent molten rock and metal into orbit around the Earth. From this orbit, the material cooled and clumped together to form the moon. Meanwhile, Earth was hit by countless meteorites and asteroids, which added to its size and created an atmosphere. Through striking imagery and computer-generated graphics, we get an unprecedented glimpse into this process.

The episode then takes us through the various epochs in Earth's history. We see how the earliest life forms, known as stromatolites, evolved and gave rise to diverse ecosystems. We learn about the rise and fall of various animal species, such as the dinosaurs, and how cataclysmic events like volcanic eruptions and asteroid impacts changed the face of the planet. Along the way, we meet some of the scientists who are working to unlock the secrets of Earth's past.

Throughout the episode, we also learn about the intricate processes that drive Earth's weather and climate. We see how the movement of tectonic plates has created mountains and shaped entire continents. We follow the journey of a single molecule of water, from evaporation in the ocean to precipitation on land. Along the way, we learn about the impact of human activity on these natural systems.

"Earth: Making of a Planet" is a stunning visual journey that will leave viewers with a newfound appreciation for our planet's incredible history. From the microscopic to the monumental, this episode explores the forces that have shaped Earth into the extraordinary and unique place that it is today. Whether you're a seasoned science buff or simply curious about the world around you, "Earth: Making of a Planet" is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand our planet's past, present, and future.