The Best TV Documentaries About Astronomy, Ranked
1Erik Thompson, Clifford V. Johnson, Alex FilippenkoWatch This Show If You Love: How the Universe Works, Cosmos: A Personal Voyage, Wonders of the Solar System, Star Gazers, The Sky at Night
Why Should I Stream? Immerse yourself in an epic exploration of space and time with The Universe, a documentary series that covers everything from black holes to alien planets. Breathtaking visuals, expert insights, and cutting-edge scientific research come together to create a captivating viewing experience. Don't miss out on this rich learning opportunity about our vast and mysterious universe.Exploring the universe and its mysteries.
2Mike Rowe, Erik Todd DellumsWatch This Show If You Love: The Universe, Wonders of the Universe, Through the Wormhole, Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey, Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking
Why Should I Stream? This visually stunning series provides a comprehensive understanding of celestial phenomena and cosmic events, all backed by expert commentary from renowned astrophysicists. How the Universe Works offers scientifically accurate information that invites viewers to marvel at the wonders above. Expand your knowledge and appreciation for space by tuning into this mesmerizing journey through the cosmos.Exploring the inner workings of outer space.
3Carl SaganWatch This Show If You Love: Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey, How the Universe Works, The Universe, Wonders of the Universe, Cosmos: Possible Worlds
Why Should I Stream? Embark on a fascinating adventure with legendary astronomer Carl Sagan as he reveals the wonders of the cosmos in this groundbreaking television series from 1980. Cosmos: A Personal Voyage intertwines science with storytelling to provoke awe and curiosity about our place in space. This timeless classic remains relevant today, making it essential viewing for astronomy enthusiasts or those passionate about scientific discovery.Cosmos: A Personal Voyage is a thirteen-part television series written by Carl Sagan, Ann Druyan, and Steven Soter, with Sagan as presenter. It was executive-produced by Adrian Malone, produced by David Kennard, Geoffrey Haines-Stiles, and Gregory Andorfer, and directed by the producers, David Oyster, Richard Wells, Tom Weidlinger, and others. It covers a wide range of scientific subjects, including the origin of life and a perspective of our place in the universe. The series was first broadcast by the Public Broadcasting Service in 1980, and was the most widely watched series in the history of American public television until The Civil War. As of 2009, it was still the most widely watched PBS series in the world. It won an Emmy and a Peabody Award, and has since been broadcast in more than 60 countries and seen by over 500 million people. A book was also published to accompany the series. Cosmos: A Personal Voyage has been considered highly significant since its broadcast; David Itzkoff of The New York Times described it as "a watershed moment for science-themed television programming".
4Brian Cox, Steven MackintoshWatch This Show If You Love: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Living Single, The Wayans Bros., The Jamie Foxx Show, My Wife and Kids
Why Should I Stream? Join physicist Brian Cox as he brings mind-bending theories about time, gravity, light, energy, and other fundamental aspects of existence to life in Wonders of the Universe. The show combines impressive visuals with intriguing explanations that inspire further inquiry into foundational cosmic concepts. Dive into this must-watch series for anyone eager to gain deeper insight into our universe's mysteries.Wonders of the Universe is a 2011 television series produced by the BBC, Discovery Channel, and Science Channel, hosted by physicist Professor Brian Cox. Wonders of the Universe was first broadcast in the United Kingdom on BBC Two from 6 March 2011. The series comprises four episodes, each of which focuses on an aspect of the universe and features a 'wonder' relevant to the theme. It follows on from Cox's 2010 series for the BBC, Wonders of the Solar System.
5Christopher Emerson, Keythe Farley, Piotr MichaelWatch This Show If You Love: Cosmos: A Personal Voyage, How the Universe Works, The Universe, Through the Wormhole, Star Gazers
Why Should I Stream? Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey is an enchanting tribute to Carl Sagan's original series but offers fresh perspectives on scientific discoveries made since its predecessor aired in 1980. With awe-inspiring visuals and compelling narration by Neil deGrasse Tyson, this reboot enthralls viewers while exploring complex ideas about life beyond Earth and humanity's role within the cosmos. Witness the beauty and wonder of space in this modern adaptation that keeps Sagan's inspiring vision alive.Exploring the universe through stories of humankind's quest for knowledge.
6Morgan Freeman, Sean Carroll, Michio KakuWatch This Show If You Love: How the Universe Works, Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking, Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission To Space, Among The Stars, Killers Of The Cosmos
Why Should I Stream? Through the Wormhole, narrated by Morgan Freeman, is a thought-provoking series that presents some of the most profound questions about existence, consciousness, and the nature of reality. By delving into cutting-edge research and featuring insights from experts across various disciplines, this show leaves viewers pondering age-old mysteries while also contemplating groundbreaking scientific revelations. Tune in to challenge your understanding of reality and expand your worldview with every episode.Bright minds from a variety of scientific disciplines explore mysteries.
7Wonders of the Solar System
Brian CoxWatch This Show If You Love: Wonders of The universe, Cosmos: a personal voyage, The sky at night, Stargazers, The universe
Why Should I Stream? In Wonders of the Solar System, physicist Brian Cox invites you to marvel at the beauty and diversity within our celestial neighborhood by examining planets, moons, comets, asteroids, and other phenomena unique to our solar system. Combining stunning visuals with engaging explanations from renowned experts in their fields allows you to appreciate these celestial wonders like never before. Don't miss out on this thrilling opportunity to learn about—and fall in love with—the solar system we call home.Brian Cox illustrates how the laws of nature have created wonders across the solar system.
8Neil deGrasse Tyson, Trang Vo, Neil ArnoteWatch This Show If You Love: Cosmos: A Personal Voyage, StarTalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson, Mars, Among The Stars, Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission To Space
Why Should I Stream? The third installment in the Cosmos franchise continues its legacy of inspiring wonder and curiosity about our universe through captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and up-to-date scientific research. Taking viewers on a journey through ancient lost worlds and futuristic visions alike, Cosmos: Possible Worlds explores humanity's potential for discovery and growth as we move forward into uncharted territory within our cosmos. Step into these awe-inspiring realms by watching this intriguing series.Host Neil deGrasse Tyson translates revelations of science into a lavishly transporting experience.
9Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking
Benedict Cumberbatch, Melissa Ricci, Christopher GohWatch This Show If You Love: Through wormholes, How universe works, Wonders of universe, Stargazers, The universe
Why Should I Stream? Delve into groundbreaking theories by one of the world's greatest minds as physicist Stephen Hawking offers his insights on black holes, extraterrestrial lifeforms, time travel possibilities, and more in Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking. The series utilizes state-of-the-art visual effects alongside expert explanations to make even complex ideas accessible for a wide audience range eager to explore the wonders of our universe. Take this chance to learn from a true genius and appreciate the marvels that space has to offer.The world-famous physicist explores the splendor and majesty of the cosmos.- 10Alberto Ammann, Anamaria Marinca, Ben Cotton
Watch This Show If You Love: Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey, Among The Stars, Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking, Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission To Space, Killers Of The Cosmo
Why Should I Stream? Mars is an innovative series set in 2033 that combines drama, documentary elements, and expert interviews to depict humanity's first mission to colonize the Red Planet. By exploring both scientific challenges and human stories inherent in such a monumental endeavor, viewers gain valuable insights into present-day research while also contemplating the potential accomplishments of future space exploration. Tune into Mars for an exhilarating journey that will spark your imagination and curiosity about what lies beyond Earth.The quest to colonize Mars as told by the crew of a fictitious mission in 2033. - 11Neil deGrasse Tyson, Bill Nye
Watch This Show If You Love: Cosmos: A Personal Voyage, Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking, Through the Wormhole, Cosmos: Possible Worlds, Wonders of the Universe
Why Should I Stream? A combination of science talk show and late-night entertainment format, StarTalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson brings together celebrities, scientists, comedians, and other experts for discussions on topics such as climate change, artificial intelligence, pop culture's influence on science, and more. Viewers can expect a delightful blend of wit, laughter, and profound insights that shed light on the infinite possibilities of our universe. Don't miss this chance to be entertained, educated, and inspired by one of the world's most beloved astrophysicists.Discussing science and technology with comedians and celebrities of media, science and pop culture. 
12Star Gazers
Jack HorkheimerWatch This Show If You Love: The Sky at Night, How the Universe Works, The Universe, Wonders of the Solar System, Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey
Why Should I Stream? Star Gazers provides astronomy enthusiasts with practical information about celestial events occurring in the night sky each week, offering tips on how best to observe these phenomena using only the naked eye or minimal equipment. With concise explanations and fascinating tidbits about stars, planets, constellations, and more—this series is perfect for anyone seeking a deeper connection with the cosmos or simply wanting inspiration for stargazing adventures. Enhance your appreciation for the beauty above by tuning into Star Gazers.Star Gazers (formerly known as Jack Horkheimer: Star Hustler and later Jack Horkheimer: Star Gazer) is a five-minute astronomy show on American public television previously hosted by Jack Foley Horkheimer, executive director of the Miami Space Transit Planetarium. After his death in 2010 from a respiratory illness from which he had suffered since childhood, a series of guest astronomers hosted until 2011, when Dean Regas, James Albury, and Marlene Hidalgo became permanent co-hosts. On the weekly program, the host informs the viewer of significant astronomical events for the upcoming week, including key constellations, stars and planets, lunar eclipses and conjunctions, as well as historical and scientific information about these events. The program is available free to all Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) public television stations, educational institutions and astronomy clubs. A month of episodes can be recorded from a satellite feed which occurs approximately two weeks before the official broadcast dates.
13The Sky at Night
Patrick MooreWatch This Show If You Love: Star Gazers, How the Universe Works, The Universe, Wonders of the Solar System, Wonders of the Universe
Why Should I Stream? The Sky at Night holds a unique place in television history as one of the world's longest-running television programs focused on astronomy since debuting in 1957. Featuring fascinating interviews with astronomers and stunning imagery captured by telescopes around the globe, this BBC production captivates viewers eager to expand their knowledge about outer space without losing any sense of wonder over its mysteries—both known and unknown. Join The Sky at Night community for an educational yet thrilling experience that celebrates all things celestial.The Sky at Night is a monthly documentary television programme on astronomy produced by the BBC. The show had the same permanent presenter, Patrick Moore, from its first airing on 24 April 1957 until 7 January 2013, Moore having died on 9 December 2012. This made it the longest-running programme with the same presenter in television history. Many early episodes are missing, either because the tapes were wiped or thrown out, or because the episode was broadcast live. Beginning with the 3 February 2013 edition, the show has been co-presented by Lucie Green and Chris Lintott, with Maggie Aderin-Pocock announced in December 2013 as a new presenter. The programme's opening and closing theme music is "At the Castle Gate", from the incidental music to Pelléas et Mélisande by Jean Sibelius, performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and conducted by Sir Thomas Beecham.Watch This Show If You Love: Through the Wormhole, Mars, Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission To Space, Among The Stars, How the Universe Works
Why Should I Stream? Killers Of The Cosmos presents a fascinating look into cosmic phenomena capable of causing catastrophic damage on Earth—and even across galaxies—with gripping episodes focusing on topics such as rogue planets, gamma-ray bursts, dark matter annihilations, and more. By examining these extraordinary threats within the context of actual scientific research and expert perspectives—viewers are simultaneously awestruck by their destructive power yet reassured by ongoing efforts to advance our understanding of these cosmic forces. Tune in for an exhilarating ride through some of the most intriguing dangers lurking within our universe.Examining dangerous phenomena in the universe.- #57 of 949 onThe Best New TV Shows Of 2021
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Watch This Show If You Love: Mars, Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission To Space, Among The Stars, Killers Of The Cosmos, Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking
Why Should I Stream? Space Shuttle Columbia: The Final Flight is an insightful documentary that delves into the tragic events surrounding the 2003 space shuttle disaster. Through interviews with key figures involved in the mission, expert analyses, and previously unreleased NASA footage—viewers gain a comprehensive understanding of what transpired during those fateful moments while also appreciating the bravery and dedication of those who lost their lives for human advancement in space exploration. This poignant tribute serves as a reminder of both the perils and progress so intimately connected to our pursuit beyond Earth's atmosphere.The story of Columbia's final mission is told in detail, beginning months before the launch.- 16Hayley Arceneaux, Jared Isaacman, Sian Proctor
Watch This Show If You Love: Mars, Among The Stars, Through the Wormhole, Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking, StarTalk With Neil deGrasse Tyson
Why Should I Stream? This captivating docuseries follows SpaceX's Inspiration4 mission—the first all-civilian orbital spaceflight—as it pushes boundaries in private space exploration while raising funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. With exclusive access to training sessions, crew interactions, pre-launch preparations, and more—Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission To Space provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at this historic event that demonstrates humanity's capacity for innovation and serves as a beacon of hope for all who dream about venturing into the cosmos. Don't miss this chance to witness the groundbreaking journey that may well shape the future of space travel.A chronicle of the first all-civilian space mission to orbit Earth.- #606 of 652 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
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- 17Chris Cassidy
Watch This Show If You Love: Mars, Into in universe with Steven hawking, Cosmos: possible worlds, The sky at night, Wonders of solar system
Why Should I Stream? Among The Stars is an enthralling docuseries showcasing astronauts, engineers, and other professionals working together on some of NASA's most ambitious projects—from building next-generation spacecraft to developing revolutionary technologies designed for deep-space missions. Through personal stories and expert insights, viewers gain an intimate understanding of what it takes to push the boundaries of human achievement while also exploring how these endeavors contribute to our evolving relationship with space. Embark on this fascinating journey that reveals both the challenges and triumphs associated with modern-day space exploration.NASA astronaut Captain Chris Cassidy ventures to space to repair the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer.More Among The Stars
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