New York City is one of the few places in the world that still runs on steam—27 billion pounds every year. This documentary explores the hidden network of pipes beneath Manhattan, the steam stacks rising from the streets, and the historic system that still heats landmark structures like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Learn how this century-old technology became essential to NYC’s infrastructure in this episode of NYC: Revealed on Curiosity Stream.

More than 100 years ago, the Wright brothers changed the course of human history. Inspired by a childhood toy helicopter, Orville and Wilbur embarked on a lifelong scientific quest to understand flight. With no formal engineering education, they used their skills as bicycle mechanics, built experimental gliders, and conducted pioneering aerodynamic research. Their persistence led to the world’s first powered, controlled airplane flight. This Bright Now documentary explores their inventions, failures, and extraordinary achievements.

Babies captivate us with their chubby cheeks, tiny toes, and joyful giggles—but why? This documentary explores the biological, emotional, and evolutionary reasons behind the traits humans develop from infancy. Dive into the science of personality and discover which traits lead to stronger bonds, deeper connections, and even long-term success in life. Part of Curiosity Stream’s A Curious World series.

Mars, our closest planetary neighbor, is a cold, dusty, and lifeless world—yet it captures the imagination of explorers and scientists alike. This documentary explores the technological, environmental, and biological challenges of sending humans to Mars and establishing an Earth-independent settlement. From living in protective lava tubes to altering the planet’s atmosphere, discover what it would take to transform Mars into humanity’s next frontier. Part of Curiosity Stream’s A Curious World series.

Zealandia, a massive landmass hidden beneath the Pacific Ocean, was officially recognized in 2017 as Earth’s eighth continent. With only New Zealand and a few surrounding islands above water, this submerged world spans nearly 1.9 million square miles. Follow geologists—led by Nick Mortimer—as they piece together the geological clues that reveal how such a vast continent formed, sank, and remained undetected for so long. Part of Curiosity Stream’s Breakthrough series.

New York City’s 30,000 acres of parks provide essential green spaces within one of the world’s busiest metropolitan areas. From the iconic Central Park—often called the city’s “green lungs”—to neighborhood parks that quietly sustain local communities, these spaces offer recreation, relaxation, and environmental benefits. This NYC: Revealed episode explores the history, importance, and hidden infrastructure of NYC’s parks, along with the growing challenges of aging systems and decades of neglect.

Nearly a century after the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb, archaeologists have unearthed a lost city in Luxor, revealing extraordinary insights into the golden era of ancient Egypt. The remarkably preserved structures, tools, pottery, jewelry workshops, and everyday objects uncover how Egyptians lived, worked, and created some of history’s most iconic treasures. Part of the Breakthrough series, this documentary explores one of the most important archaeological finds of modern times.

Insects are disappearing at an alarming rate, posing a serious threat to ecosystems worldwide. As pollinators decline, nearly 90% of plant species could be at risk, leading to a cascading collapse of biodiversity. This Bright Now documentary investigates the causes—from habitat loss to human-driven environmental changes—and reveals why protecting insects is essential for the survival of life on Earth.

Discover the extraordinary olfactory abilities of dogs, whose noses can detect explosives, missing people, illegal substances, and even illnesses such as cancer. This Breakthrough documentary explores cutting-edge scientific research aimed at replicating canine scent detection through advanced technology, including new tools and smartphone applications designed to identify diseases by smell. Could the secrets of a dog’s nose revolutionize human health detection?

Deep in the mountains of West Virginia, the Green Bank Observatory has recorded a series of powerful and mysterious fast radio bursts originating from far beyond our galaxy. In an environment free from modern wireless interference, hundreds of unexplained signals have been detected—leaving scientists wondering whether they’re witnessing violent cosmic events or the possible signatures of alien technology. This documentary dives into the search for answers behind one of the most intriguing astronomical mysteries of our time.

Spiders have thrived for over 300 million years, mastering predation with extraordinary strategies and crafting intricate silk webs that continue to amaze scientists. This Breakthrough documentary explores the unmatched strength and flexibility of spider silk—seven times lighter than steel yet equally strong—and unveils new research showing that spiders can even detect sound vibrations through their webs. A deeper look into one of nature’s most remarkable engineering marvels.

Great white sharks are among the most feared predators on the planet—yet science still knows surprisingly little about them. Capable of reaching speeds of 35 mph and armed with 300 replaceable teeth, these sharks dominate the oceans. This Breakthrough documentary follows evolutionary biologist Dr. Toby Daly-Engel as she applies forensic-style DNA techniques to map the great white’s family tree, unlocking new secrets about their evolution, biology, and lineage.

Weather prediction has become more accurate than ever—24-hour forecasts are now 95% reliable, and 3-day forecasts hold an 80% accuracy rate. This Bright Now documentary explores the science of meteorology, revealing how experts use satellites, supercomputers, data models, and atmospheric analysis to understand and forecast the weather. Discover how new technologies are shaping the future of forecasting and helping scientists stay one step ahead of nature.

During the Ice Age, massive ice sheets kept global sea levels significantly lower. Today, as the Arctic warms, Greenland’s ice is melting rapidly, adding billions of tons of water to oceans every year. This Breakthrough documentary investigates the environmental and societal consequences of this melting ice, including rising seas, changing weather patterns, and impacts on ecosystems, highlighting why scientists around the world are closely monitoring Greenland’s disappearing ice sheet.

New York City is home to one of the busiest airspaces in the world. Managing JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports requires handling 140 million passengers and over 3,000 flights each day. This NYC Revealed episode examines the challenges posed by aging infrastructure, the upgrades needed to modernize these airports, and the strategies used to ensure smooth operations in one of the globe’s most complex aviation systems.

The Chachapoya, known as the “Cloud Warriors,” were a mysterious pre-Incan civilization of the Peruvian Andes. This Breakthrough documentary delves into their unique culture, lifestyle, and enduring influence on modern Peru. Recent archaeological and genetic discoveries reveal surprising insights into their society, shedding light on a people often overlooked in South American history, yet whose legacy continues to fascinate researchers and historians today.

The I-400 was one of the largest submarines built by the Imperial Japanese Navy, capable of carrying and launching three fully operational aircraft. This Bright Now documentary follows maritime archaeologists as they search off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, for the wreck of this remarkable World War II vessel. Their expedition uncovers the technical marvels, historical significance, and secretive mission profile of Japan’s lost supersub, offering a fascinating glimpse into a little-known chapter of naval history.

This Bright Now episode explores what would happen if humanity faced a catastrophic apocalypse—whether from a virus, nuclear war, or asteroid strike. Even with a 99% population loss, millions would survive. Astrobiologist and author Lewis Dartnell reveals the essential scientific principles, tools, and technologies required to rebuild civilization from the ground up. From agriculture and medicine to energy and infrastructure, discover what it would truly take to restart society after global collapse.

Rip currents can transform a relaxing day at the beach into a life-threatening emergency. This Breakthrough episode explores how rip currents form, how to spot them from shore, and what survival techniques can save your life. Featuring expert insights and new research, it provides vital knowledge every swimmer and beachgoer should know.

Before they led America through national crises, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, and Lyndon Johnson endured profound personal struggles that shaped their leadership. This CuriosityStream documentary, featuring historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, explores how trauma and adversity forged the resilience and determination that defined these iconic presidents.

Firefighters are facing increasing challenges as rising temperatures and drier conditions create more frequent and intense emergencies. This Bright Now episode examines how new firefighting technologies—like the MSTAR emergency vehicle developed by former NASA engineer Mike Ralston—could transform frontline response and make saving lives easier in a rapidly changing world.

Humor may be one of the most powerful tools for improving emotional and physical health. This Bright Now episode explores what makes something funny, how laughter affects the brain, and whether comedy can be taught. Featuring stand-up comedian Carmen Lynch and insights from neuroscientists and clown instructors, the documentary reveals the surprising science behind why we laugh.

Tiny houses are becoming a powerful movement in sustainable living. This Bright Now episode follows designer Graham Hill as he transforms a small shed in Maui into a cutting-edge eco-friendly tiny home. Through green technology, minimalist design, and off-grid solutions, the documentary explores how tiny houses can reduce environmental impact and inspire a new way of living.

For decades, ADHD was thought to primarily affect boys and men, but women face unique challenges in both academics and daily life. This Bright Now documentary follows women with ADHD as they share their personal struggles, triumphs, and resilience. Highlighting new research and effective treatment strategies, the episode provides insight into the impact of ADHD on millions of women.

Grand Central Terminal stands at the heart of New York City’s rail system, serving over a million passengers daily. This NYC Revealed episode explores the station’s Beaux-Arts architecture, historical significance, and the people who keep it running smoothly, highlighting why it remains one of the city’s most treasured landmarks.

Nearly a century after the Tasmanian tiger, or thylacine, was wiped out by human activity, scientists are exploring the possibility of bringing this extinct species back to life. This Breakthrough episode follows Dr. Andrew Pask and other geneticists as they investigate de-extinction techniques and the future of wildlife conservation.

Clean, fresh water is vital for all life, yet growing population, climate change, and pollution are threatening global water supplies. This Breakthrough episode explores the challenges facing major cities around the world, highlights potential solutions, and examines the discovery of a massive U.S. aquifer that may help secure humanity’s future.

The New Horizons spacecraft transformed our understanding of the solar system with its historic flyby of Pluto. This Breakthrough episode showcases the stunning images and data captured during the mission, explores the diversity and activity on Pluto, and follows the spacecraft as it continues its journey into the Kuiper Belt toward Ultima Thule.

Host Nick Uhas explores the fascinating role of fire in human evolution and modern society. From ancient campfires that shaped social behavior to the engines and technologies that power our world today, this Oddly Satisfying Science episode blends fun experiments with scientific insight to reveal how fire has fueled human progress.

Breakdancing blends artistry, athleticism, and scientific precision. This Science of Movement episode follows 3x world champion b-boy El Niño and top experts as they reveal the strength, coordination, and medical support required to push the limits of human movement. Explore how breakdancing became an Olympic sport and what it takes to compete at the highest level.