NOVA

Science and Nature Series / 24 Seasons

NOVA brings you stories from the frontlines of science and engineering, answering the big questions of today and tomorrow, from how our ancestors lived, to whether parallel universes exist, to how technology will transform our lives. Visit the official website to watch full-length documentaries, or explore our world through short-form video, on our digital publication NOVA Next.

Watch Latest: S51 E16

53m 40s / TV-G

Your Brain: Who's in Control? Preview

29s

Are you in control of your brain, or is your brain controlling you? Dive into the latest research on the subconscious with neuroscientist Heather Berlin to see what’s really driving the decisions you make.

Is the Human Brain Actually Two Minds?

5m 17s

The two hemispheres of the brain communicate via a bundle of fibers called the corpus callosum. For some people with epilepsy, seizures can quickly spread to the other through this region. But if that bridge is surgically severed, a seizure can no longer cross.

Your Memories Are Not as True as You Think

3m 51s

Did your memories ever really happen? Turns out, every time you recall a memory, it gets a little more false. Scientists explain why your memories change over time—and why they’re less real than you think.

Your Brain: Perception Deception Preview

29s

Is what you see real? Join neuroscientist Heather Berlin on a quest to understand how your brain shapes your reality, and why you can’t always trust what you perceive. Learn the surprising tricks and shortcuts the brain takes to help us survive.

Could Whale Poop Help Cool the Planet?

2m 43s

Whales are massive reservoirs of carbon and they are key to the health of our oceans. But there are fewer whales — and less whale poop — in the ocean today than before industrial whaling took off.

How an Underwater Volcano Produced a 60-Foot Tsunami

2m 35s

On January 15, 2022, an underwater volcano erupted off the shores of the Pacific islands of Tonga—the most explosive event ever recorded on Earth. The blast triggered a massive tsunami with waves over 60 feet high. Here's how it happened.

Witnesses Recount Surviving a Volcanic Explosion

2m 57s

At 5:15pm on January 15, 2022, satellites recorded the volcano Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai blast a cloud of ash and rocks into the atmosphere. Within minutes, tsunami waves crashed into the South Pacific nation of Tonga. These are the stories of some of the survivors.

Hidden Volcano Abyss Preview

30s

In January 2022, one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history rocked the islands of Tonga. Join scientists as they investigate what caused the blast, how it spurred a devastating tsunami, and if another eruption could be imminent.

Meet Snow Cone the Right Whale and Her Calf

4m 32s

In 2020, the number of North Atlantic right whale calves born in the Southeast was slightly higher than it had been in previous years, but still nowhere near enough to get the population moving in a positive direction.

Saving the Right Whale Preview

27s

The North Atlantic right whale is on the brink of extinction. But a handful of specialists are determined to help save it as they discover new secrets about the lives of these giants of the sea.

Why Induction Stoves Are Better for You and the Environment

2m 56s

These stoves use electricity to create a magnetic field that causes the electrons inside pots and pans that contain iron to vibrate tens of thousands of times. This creates the friction and heat needed for cooking without the energy or fumes from gas stoves.

How Heat Pumps Can Help Cities Lower Carbon Emissions

4m 17s

Heat pumps are a key solution to help reduce carbon emissions. Instead of creating heat, they move heat from one place to another and have a much lower carbon footprint. But can we make them accessible to all?

Hurricanes Are Getting More Destructive

4m 15s

For 100-million Americans living in coastal communities, more destructive storms are an increasing worry. Some are starting to confront the possibility of losing their land entirely.

Supported by