Science documentaries

Science and mathematics keep presenting opportunities for us to understand and shape the world in new, original, and sometimes troubling ways. From the world's first computer to vaccine conspiracy theories, sign up to BBC Select to watch some of the BBC science documentaries in the US and Canada.

Colour: Spectrum of Science

Colour: Spectrum of Science

We live in a world ablaze with color. Rainbows and rainforests, oceans and humanity, Earth is the most colorful place we know of. But the colors we see are far more complex and fascinating than they appear. Physicist Dr Helen Czerski uncovers what color is, how it works, and how it has written the story of our planet. Colors transformed a dull ball of rock into a vivid, unique jewel.

First Contact: An Alien Encounter

First Contact: An Alien Encounter

Many leading scientists believe there’s a genuine possibility that the first evidence of extra-terrestrial life may so on be detected. This intriguing mix of cutting-edge science documentary and drama offers up an exploration of what might happen if an alien object was detected traveling through the solar system towards us. How would the planet and its leaders respond?

Spectacular Earth

Spectacular Earth

Get closer than ever before to some of the world’s most stunning phenomena and discover the extraordinary forces that coincide to make each mesmerizing spectacle happen. This astonishing natural history documentary looks at the science and spectacle behind, lightning, megawaves, volcanoes and auroras to discover what causes them and the devastating damage they can inflict.

The Secret Genius of Modern Life

The Secret Genius of Modern Life

Some of the most familiar, useful technology that has transformed modern life has a fascinating, baffling backstory. In this jaw-dropping documentary, mathematician Hannah Fry reveals the miraculous components that create current tech. Bank cards have a sinister origin, a Hollywood star was involved in future virtual assistant development and waffles helped to improve the soles of your sneakers!

Why Are We Still Searching for Fossil Fuels?

Why Are We Still Searching for Fossil Fuels?

Almost every country in the world has made a commitment to limit the rise in global warming to 1.5 degrees. The experts say that will only happen if we stop searching for new fossil fuels. So why is oil, coal and gas exploration still booming? This compelling science documentary investigates why we are still looking for buried carbon in almost every part of the globe.