Product Description

From the mysteries of our own solar system those that surround unexplored galaxies, history and science collide in this ambitious investigation of the Universe.

Questions about the Universe have consumed man since the dawn of time. In the 50 years since humans made their first tentative explorations of space, we have increased our knowledge of the cosmos dramatically, using powerful telescopes, robotic probes, and manned missions. But only recently has computer technology allowed scientists to illustrate in stunning detail their awe-inspiring conclusions. THE UNIVERSE, a groundbreaking series from THE HISTORY CHANNEL®, employs cutting-edge computer-generated imagery to bring distant planets and faraway stars up close, allowing viewers to gaze at black holes and comets, and witness the births and deaths of galaxies and solar systems.

This epic miniseries takes viewers on an exhilarating voyage through the cosmos. From the farthest reaches of distant galaxies back to the familiar face of our moon, THE UNIVERSE brings the mysteries of the heavens down to earth.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1867 in DVD
• Brand: A&E
• Released on: 2007-11-20
• Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
• Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
• Formats: Subtitled, Color, NTSC
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 4
• Dimensions: 1.00 pounds
• Running time: 705 minutes

Amazon.com
The sky and outer space have fascinated man for centuries and the History Channel's series The Universe is the story of man's study of the cosmos from his earliest attempts to map and understand the heavens through modern day scientific studies, advances, and theories. A mix of historical footage, modern space imaging, and conceptual computer graphics presented in high-definition, the visual component of this production is absolutely breathtaking. Each of the 13 44-minute episodes begins with a general introduction of subjects ranging from the sun to individual planets, alien galaxies, the search for extra-terrestrial life, and scientific theories like the Big Bang. Each topic is then broken down into a series of segments that detail specific ideas, theories, or components integral to the understanding of the main topic as well as historical material, current studies and theories, and projections of potential future events and scientific advances. The 90-minute "Beyond the Big Bang" feature relates "the story of everything"--from the universe's formation following the "Big Bang" to its eventual projected demise from unchecked expansion dubbed the "Big Rip." Leading experts from universities and scientific institutions around the world do a great job of taking very complex subjects like galaxies with spiral density arms and relating them to easily graspable concepts like a city with a downtown core surrounded by suburbs and plagued by freeway traffic jams. Amazing photographs from the Hubble space telescope, infrared views from the Spitzer space telescope, and x-ray images from the Chandra X-ray Observatory augment understanding as do demonstrations of modern science's ability to simulate historical events like the formation of earth and to project future cosmic events. The Universe is a fascinating and understandable study of space that speaks to viewers ranging from the generally curious to the serious student of cosmology. --Tami Horiuchi

Customer Reviews

Out of This World!
I've ordered this show on iTunes and now I want to add this as a permanent collection on my DVD rack, so here I am. This show is great on a number of levels. Following along the lines of great shows like Dogfights, this series takes a new, refreshing, and bold look at our solar system, stars, galaxies, you name it, with great computer graphics and special effects. I've longed for a show that realistically took me among the clouds of Jupiter and Saturn, and here it is. It's also great for the family, because even though its focus is on science its presentation is on a layman's -- or even children's -- level. My 8-year-old daughter has even shown a newfound interest in astronomy. So consider buying this show; not just for you, but for the entertainment and enlightenment of those around you. You won't regret it. To the creators of this show, if you read this, know your work is greatly appreciated and keep 'em coming!

Bonus Disk is Included
I ordered this item from Amazon not knowing if the bonus disk "Beyond the Big Bang" was included. Other web sites very clearly state that it is. After receiving the DVD set, I confirm to all interested that the bonus disk is indeed included in the product I received from Amazon.

Excellent space dvd set !
I purchased this dvd set after seeing it on the History channel and I was blown away because it is so informative and well done both the visual effects and descriptions of our universe and planets VERY interesting series everything you will want to know about our solar system and beyond you will never view our universe the same again this will make you think. these shows envelope the viewer into the topic at hand and forseeable future catastrophies of planets detailed descriptions of all the planets that will fascinate you like never before this series is just great buy it and enjoy.