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.

Secrets of Our Universe with Tim Peake

Secrets of Our Universe with Tim Peake

Author, Army officer, and European Space Agency astronaut Tim Peake takes us on an incredible journey through the universe. In this fascinating science documentary, Tim travels the world while exploring the secrets of the Solar System’s origins, discovering how stars are formed and how they die, delving into the mysteries of the black hole and sharing how to survive when living in space.

Ancient Earth

Ancient Earth

How did Earth transform from a barren rock with no atmosphere into a lush, green, watery planet filled with life? From massive asteroid bombardments to extreme changes in climate and collisions of whole continents, this thrilling documentary takes viewers on a journey through our planet’s most astonishing ancient history, beginning with its early years as a volcanic hellscape to the rise of humans.

Seven Days on Mars

Seven Days on Mars

Professor Brian Cox fulfils a childhood dream by going behind the scenes at Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. This is mission control for Mars 2020, one of the most ambitious projects ever launched that may reveal if life existed on the red planet. With unique, privileged access, Brian watches the rover, Perseverance, travel the surface of Mars in real time, seeking out signs of alien existence

Super Cute Animals

Super Cute Animals

A sneezing panda bear and hand-holding otters were internet sensations. People are obsessed with cute animals. But nothing in nature happens by accident. Animals are cute for a whole variety of different reasons and wildlife cameraman Gordon Buchanan investigates why certain animals are cute in certain ways and reveals the scientific stories behind the adorability some creatures.

Heartbreak Science

Heartbreak Science

Is it possible to die from a broken heart and do the experiences of transplant patients prove that the heart is capable of storing memories? This fascinating science documentary investigates some of the world’s most intriguing heart health mysteries. Incredible medical stories from around the world appear to suggest it’s a far more complex and misunderstood organ than originally thought.