Known Universe

From the enormous universe in which we exist to tiny atoms that make up the building blocks of everything around us, size matters when it comes to understanding the cosmos. Starting with our solar system, National Geographic explores the true meaning of the words "big" and "small". Our neighborhood of planets may seem vast but compared to the size of our Milky Way galaxy, our solar system is really tiny. And our galaxy is only one of about 100 billion galaxies in the cosmos. But every giant object in our expansive universe is made of tiny bits of matter - the atom - which is a universe within itself on a minute scale. Peer into the atomic world where scientists are using nanotechnology to develop lifesaving cures and ingenious inventions.

Scientists believe that our universe started with a colossal explosion called the Big Bang. That powerful blast created all the matter in the universe and laid the groundwork for every explosion since. From exploding stars to asteroid impacts, Known Universe: The Most Explosive deconstructs some of the biggest explosions in the universe with unforgettable CGI and slow-motion footage. Even a devastating earthquake would be tiny compared to what would happen if an asteroid six miles across slammed into Las Vegas. In spectacularly realistic CGI, experience the impact and its blistering shockwave. Discover how scientists have devised strategies to harness the sun's explosive power to divert dangerous meteorites from slamming into the Earth.

In the vast expanse of space, nothing matters more than speed. Whether we're venturing out to the farthest reaches of our solar system or exploring the mysteries of time travel and wormholes, speed is the key. With stunning CGI and riveting footage, Known Universe: The Fastest explores interstellar travel, wormholes and black holes and re-examines Einstein's theories which might hint at the existence of portals that could reach through the very fabric of space and time.