Earth Story (1998) BBC

A World Apart

Episode 8: A World Apart

Is the Earth unique, and if so, why? To find an answer, scientists have had to explore the Solar System, searching for clues about our planet's birth. Uniquely amongst the terrestrial planets, the Earth has retained liquid water on its surface for over 4 billion years, despite a steady increase in the Sun's heat output.This water has had a profound influence on the planet's geological activity, as well as being a breeding ground for life. But living organisms may have played a crucial role in ensuring that liquid water exists on Earth, linking the planet's geology and biology tightly together.

Earth Story unravels the secrets of our planet and brings it alive. The series took three years to make, cost 3 million and was filmed all over the world, from the craters of active volcanoes to the ocean floor. Where the cameras could not go, in both time and space, the latest animation techniques take over. Combining live-action footage with state-of-the-art computer graphics which enable us to travel back and forwards through time, this is a fantastic journey of scientific discovery and a comprehensive history of life - in all its forms - on the planet. Stunning documentary following scientists in various locations around the world - at the bottom of the ocean, in an active volcano, up the Himalayas etc - as they explain the story of the Earth. Heralding the new age of digital television, this masterful BBC documentary was one of the first major programmes to usher in the new era, back in 1998. Aubrey Manning takes viewers on a voyage of discovery across our very own planet, and the wonders within. Earth Story unravels the secrets of our planet and brings it alive. The series took three years to make, cost £3million and was filmed all over the world, from the craters of active volcanoes to the ocean floor. Where the cameras could not go, in both time and space, the latest animation techniques take over. Combining live-action footage with state-of-the-art computer graphics which enable us to travel back and forwards through time, this is a fantastic journey of scientific discovery and a comprehensive history of life--in all its forms--on the planet.

Source: BBC