Our Atmosphere: Earth Science

We reveal the scientific marvel that is Earth's unique and complex atmosphere. We investigate how this thin but vital blanket of air, the equivalent thickness of a lick of vanish on a model globe, came about. How a chance interplanetary collision and a remarkable plant mutation created the only planet in the solar system with an atmosphere rich in oxygen- the potent gas that powers our planet. We uncover how our atmosphere carries rivers of life-giving water, acts like an invisible wall against deadly space matter. And we meet the only man to have ever braved its hostile upper reaches and survived.