Mass.) WGBH (Television station : Boston

Do we control our fat, or does it control us? Scientists are coming to understand fat as a fascinating and dynamic organ, one whose size has more to do with biological processes than personal choices. Through real-life stories of hunter-gatherers, sumo wrestlers, and supermodels, explore the complex functions of fat and the role it plays in controlling hunger, hormones, and even reproduction.

Machines with human-like capabilities have long been the stuff of science fiction. Until now. Meet the world's most advanced humanoid robots as they leave the lab, battle real-world challenges, and endeavor to become part of everyday lives.

In early January 2004, two spacecraft carrying identical robotic explorers will touch down on the surface of Mars. On that day, NOVA will present a special television event that climaxes with live coverage as NASA/JPL scientists await the first critical signals confirming that the rovers have landed safely. The show features a gripping behind-the-scenes glimpse of the design, testing, and launch of the mission. The engineers face a tense deadline...

Pioneering with an eco-friendly twist, discover how easy, cost-effective and healthy it can be to go green, and dispels myths about environmentally-conscious lifestyles. Follow the step-by-step construction of Kevin's green dream home in Santa Barbara, with practical advice and expert guidance on a range of topics like straw bale construction, breathable paints and blue jean insulation. The final result is a Zen modernist house that is not only earthquake...

Dig deep into the Mormon past to understand the church today. One of America's fastest-growing religions and, relative to its size, one of the richest. Church membership, now at twelve million and growing, sweeps the globe. From the moment of its founding in 1830, the church has been controversial. In the early years Mormons were hated, ridiculed, persecuted and feared. In the past several decades, the Mormon Church has transformed itself from a fringe...

The fast-growing field of epigenetics investigates hidden influences that could not only affect our health today but that of our descendants far into the future.

Looks back at the events of 9/11 and reviews the major investigations into the causes of the collapse of the World Trade Center. Compares the collapse of the Twin Towers with the destruction of the Alfred P. Murrah building in Oklahoma City. Discusses the structural features and fireproofing methods that made these buildings vulnerable and the costs, practicality, and possibility of completely correcting these weaknesses. Features two new buildings...

Presents the story behind the Apollo space program, including the historic walk on the moon in 1969.

Five years after the Fukushima disaster, the future of nuclear power is in question. Join engineers as they embark on an unprecedented cleanup and investigate new nuclear technologies that would prevent future meltdowns.

First, George accidentally frees some of the animals at the zoo. Then, George discovers that different animals make different tracks. Next, George learns that all living things behave in different ways. Then, George designs and builds the perfect pigeon perch. Next, George must gather and analyze evidence to prove that Gnocchi has been wrongfully accused. Then, George realizes that dogs come in all different shapes and sizes. Next, George learns a...