“The Universe: Our Solar System” is another History channel special in HD just gleaming with hi-def celestial images and CGI blends of space and our planets. It is a ridiculously gorgeous travel through the solar system complete with expert interviews and narratives focusing on the most impressive facts and figures as well as driving for information relevant to today, for example: How could sun spots impact the weather and future of our home planet, Earth?

Leave it to the history channel to take something we all take for granted like our sun, put it under a microscope of analysis to conclude that while it has been existence for millions of years, that it may burn out and die under our watch and annihilate the human race (we don’t have enough problems, right?). It adds a little extra excitement and sensationalism to entities that should be fascinating enough on their own, but I can sympathize with today’s attention spans that throwing in a little fear can be the best way to get interested and absorb by putting a personal stake on matters. After all, this is what I remembered the most about this episode!

Beyond the sun, this set also journeys to Mars exploring the possibility of a human settlement there someday (I think I’ve seen a movie about this….). The Ends of Earth are explored in the most devastating ways possible with the deep space threats to the planet (now I KNOW I’ve seen that movie 2-5 times). Not to be outdone, the History channel focuses on Jupiter: the Giant Planet, The Moon (could’ve used more Mooninites from Aqua Teen Hunger Force but otherwise a very cool place to visit. You should watch the movie, “Moon” starring Sam Rockwell if you haven’t already!!), the Inner Planets: Mercury & Venus (underappreciated), and Saturn: Lord of the Rings (the trilogy is one of my favorite movies ever as a whole and should be left with me if I’m stuck on a deserted island). Alien Galaxies and the Life and Death of a Star are also touched upon with their own episodes.

The science is just plain cool when it comes down to it and these are the best images you’ll see beyond getting your own super-powered telescope (and I’m willing to bet these are STILL better). The History channel once again excels at bringing in the information, making it educational, relevant, interesting, and exciting which is great for targeting students or those of us adults who just have a joy for learning all the time. Pick it up for the brain in your household!!

Bonus Features: None
Rating: 5 / 5