The Life of Earth

Scientists, aerospace engineers, and astronauts are studying how Earth came into existence by gathering data from hundreds of satellites. From Earth's early days, when its surface was a hellish ocean of molten rock, to the bombardment of meteors that brought water and the ingredients for life, witness its 4.5-billion-year journey and discover fresh insights into its epic history. This is the remarkable story of Earth from a truly unique vantage point.

Since humankind first went into space, we've had the ability to look down on the marvels of our civilization. Now, thanks to space technology, we are also able to look at our past to better understand how the dynamic life on our planet has influenced the rise of our species. Join us as we travel back 300,000 years to Africa's equatorial zone where Homo sapiens first walked Earth. See how humans' ability to harness the power of agriculture and fossil fuels transformed not just our population, but the entire ecosystem.