Mars

Combining feature film-quality scripted elements and visual effects with documentary-style interviews, "Mars" illuminates the peaks and valleys of a modern-day space race while dramatizing humanity's first harrowing attempt to colonize the distant planet. The scripted portion is told from the point of view of a maiden Mars mission in 2033. Led by commander Ben Sawyer, the crew of the Daedalus spacecraft must overcome monumental obstacles if it is to successfully establish the first sustainable colony on Mars. Oscar and Emmy winners Ron Howard and Brian Glazer, via their production house Imagine Entertainment, are among the series' executive producers, and visionary Mexican filmmaker Everardo Gout ("Days of Grace") directs.

Nat Geo TV · Drama · Streaming on Disney+ · 6 episodes

Episodes: S1 E6 Crossroads — A devastating tragedy in the colony forces everyone on Mars and Earth to question the mission. While Olympus Town tries to cope and persevere, team leaders back on Earth struggle with the decision whether to end the mission. In the present day, SpaceX continues to work on pioneering rocket technology that could one day help mankind reach the red planet.; S1 E5 Darkest Days — In 2037, the dust storm has lasted for months, and Olympus Town’s infrastructure, along with its residents’ well-being, suffers. The psychological pressures of life on Mars reveal themselves while the crew is trapped inside the habitat. In the present day, scientists study the effects of extreme isolation to prepare for a future manned mission to Mars.; S1 E4 Power — 2037: Four years have passed since the crew landed on Mars and established its first settlement. A new crew arrives to plan for expansion and search for life, but a dust storm threatens the outpost. In present day, we look at how McMurdo Station in Antarctica serves as a modern example of how humans may settle Mars, as scientists work to determine whether life could be possible on another planet.; S1 E3 Pressure Drop — In 2033, the Daedalus crew struggles to find permanent shelter. Currently, the European Space Agency and Roscosmos partner to launch an orbiter.; S1 E2 Grounded — The Daedalus crew battles harsh Martian terrain to reach base camp. NASA Astronaut Scott Kelly undergoes a mission on the International Space Station.; S1 E1 Novo Mundo — In 2033, the first human mission to Mars enters its atmosphere, while currently, SpaceX attempts to land the world’s first reusable rocket.