About this season
This extraordinary series is a sweeping account of the rise of Earth’s continents. They are the product of a grand waltz of plate tectonics and the continual evolution of Earth’s crust. As landmasses assemble and separate, they fuel volcanoes and spark earthquakes, building mountains and tearing valleys. We see the Earth, eons in the making, through the eyes of geologists and other scientists.
Episodes (5)
1. Oceania - The Tectonic Ring of Fire
Aired 4 June 2012 • 43 min
Examining what resulted from the collision of the Australian and Pacific plates that formed the lands of the South Pacific.
2. Asia - The Tectonics of Life and Death
Aired 5 June 2012 • 43 min
The greatest destruction of life in the Earth's history; Siberia joining other land masses. Charting Siberia's course across the Earth's surface and the formation of the planet's largest continent.
3. Asia - Rising Mountains and Sinking Countries
Aired 6 June 2012 • 43 min
The Indian subcontinent pushes the Himalayas upward; Japan is shaken by tectonic forces; Indonesia is ravaged by volcanoes. The rise of the Himalayas is chronicled. Also: Natural events that impacted Japan and Indonesia are discussed.
4. Europe - Tropical Beginnings
Aired 7 June 2012 • 43 min
Europe was born of three massive tectonic collisions, leading the numerous transformations. Exploring Europe's geological history. Also: Fossils and petrified forests are examined.
5. Europe - A Turbulent Future
Aired 8 June 2012 • 43 min
Europe continues to be transformed by tectonic forces; Iceland cracks at the seams; the Alps are rising. Changes in Iceland and the Mediterranean Sea are examined as tectonic forces continue to transform Europe.