Planet Earth

1986

Production

Planet Earth is a seven episode PBS television documentary series, focusing on our planet, narrated by Richard Kiley. This vivid 7-part chronicle of discovery, documents some astonishing developments in geoscience, as it guides us to a better understanding of our planet's past, present and future. Voyage from the ocean's depths to the distant boundaries of the solar system. Planet Earth explores the geological forces that have shaped and continue to influence life on our planet, whether they come from deep within the earth's crust or the reaches of the solar system. A journey of breathtaking imagery and compelling ideas. Witness the power of the savage forces that created our world.

Seasons

7 Episodes • Premiered 1986

1. The Living Machine

The episode discusses plate tectonics and geologic time, highlighting the work of James Hutton, Alfred Wegener, Harry Hess, Allan V. Cox, Brent Dalrymple, Frederick Vine, and Drummond Matthews, and discussing how geologists study layers of rock to read billions of years of the Earth's history.

2. The Blue Planet

The episode discusses major new revelations about the oceans.

3. The Climate Puzzle

The episode examines the complexities of the Earth's climate.

4. Tales from Other Worlds

Using special effects and actual footage from space to illustrate other worlds in the Solar System, the episode discusses the connections between the Earth and the cosmos.

5. Gifts from the Earth

The episode focuses on the Earth's natural resources, including minerals such as copper, gold, silver, and platinum; fossil fuels such as petroleum, coal, and peat; and soil.

6. The Solar Sea

The episode explores the Earth's relationship with the Sun.

7. Fate of the Earth

The episode explores the role of life in shaping the Earth and discusses the planet's possible future.

Cast

Richard Kiley

Narrator

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