Best TV Shows About Space Exploration and Astronomy

For aspiring space professionals or anyone with a passion for the cosmos, the following TV shows offer a blend of science, storytelling, and imagination.

1. Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey (2014)

Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey is a reboot of Carl Sagan's legendary series, hosted by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. This visually stunning show explores everything from the origins of the universe to the potential for life beyond Earth. It is not just a TV series but an educational journey that presents complex scientific ideas in an engaging and accessible way.

2. The Expanse (2015-2021)

Though fictional, The Expanse is one of the most scientifically grounded space shows ever made. Set in the distant future when humanity has colonized the solar system, this gripping sci-fi drama examines political intrigue, alien technology, and the consequences of space travel. It has won praise for its accurate portrayal of the physics of space exploration and is a must-watch for anyone interested in the realities of space travel.

3. For All Mankind (2019-present)

For All Mankind offers an alternate history in which the Soviet Union won the space race, pushing the United States to double down on its space exploration efforts. The series is a masterful blend of historical fiction and scientific speculation, showing what could have happened if space exploration had become the ultimate battleground of the Cold War. It offers a fascinating look into how space could have shaped global politics.

4. Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)

Star Trek: The Next Generation is a classic, blending idealism with futuristic technology and space exploration. While it takes creative liberties, many of the show's predictions have influenced real-world science. Its portrayal of interstellar travel, space diplomacy, and the ethics of exploration continues to inspire engineers, scientists, and space enthusiasts.

5. How the Universe Works (2010-present)

This documentary series is perfect for space enthusiasts who want to understand the workings of the universe in detail. It explores black holes, the big bang, supernovas, and more. With leading astronomers and physicists explaining complex phenomena, How the Universe Works brings cutting-edge science to your living room.

6. Mars (2016-2018)

A hybrid of scripted drama and documentary, Mars tells the story of humanity's first attempts to colonize the Red Planet. Produced by National Geographic, it mixes fictional accounts of a Mars mission in 2033 with real-world interviews with leading space experts. It’s an exciting glimpse into the potential future of human space exploration.

7. The Planets (2019)

Presented by Professor Brian Cox, The Planets takes viewers on a visually spectacular journey through our solar system. This documentary series delves into the formation of the planets, the possibility of life beyond Earth, and the future of space exploration. It's beautifully shot and scientifically detailed, making it both educational and awe-inspiring.

8. One Strange Rock (2018)

Hosted by astronaut Chris Hadfield and narrated by Will Smith, One Strange Rock takes viewers on a breathtaking journey to explore Earth from the perspective of astronauts. While not strictly about space exploration, the series emphasizes how space travel changes one’s view of our planet and the universe. Its blend of stunning visuals and scientific insight makes it an essential viewing for aspiring space explorers.

9. The Right Stuff (2020)

Based on the lives of NASA's first astronauts, The Right Stuff dramatizes the early days of the space race. It captures the challenges, dangers, and triumphs of human space exploration, from early rocket testing to the historic Apollo missions. For those interested in the human side of space exploration, this series offers a gripping look at what it takes to break the bounds of Earth.

10. Ancient Aliens (2009-present)

Ancient Aliens explores the fascinating, albeit controversial, theory that extraterrestrial beings may have visited Earth in ancient times. While the show is more speculative than scientifically accurate, it delves into astronomical mysteries and historical anomalies, encouraging viewers to think critically about humanity’s place in the universe.

Conclusion

Space exploration and astronomy continue to inspire some of the most thought-provoking television shows. Whether you're an aspiring space professional or simply a curious mind, these series provide an engaging mix of entertainment, science, and wonder. They spark the imagination, offer insights into our universe, and, perhaps most importantly, remind us of the boundless possibilities that lie beyond our planet.