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The Elegant Universe: Part 1

Season 30 Episode 12 | 52m 55s

"Einstein's Dream," introduces string theory and shows how modern physics—composed of two theories that are ferociously incompatible—reached its schizophrenic impasse: One theory, general relativity, successfully describes big things like stars and galaxies, while another, quantum mechanics, is equally successful at explaining small things like atoms and subatomic particles.

Aired: 10/26/03
National Corporate funding for NOVA is provided by Carlisle Companies. Major funding for NOVA is provided by the NOVA Science Trust, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and PBS viewers.
Extras
Humans are born to roam. See how engineers are inventing new ways to explore and extend our range.
The moon Phobos has a mysterious origin but a certain expiration date.
Some large meteorites survive their descent through our atmosphere and land on Earth.
The ocean beneath Europa’s icy shell might be an ideal environment for life.
Hydrothermal vents in Enceladus’ ocean may hold the promise of life.
Enceladus’ small size and icy surface is no limitation to its extreme volcanism.
Martian dust devils may have helped NASA’s rovers restore power during mission.
As comets cross the invisible boundary known as the ice line, their ice starts turning into gas.
Io’s intense volcanic activity defies all expectations.
For millions of years, a tiny moon has made a significant impact on the structure of Saturn’s rings.
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Humans are born to roam. See how engineers are inventing new ways to explore and extend our range.
Is engineering humanity’s superpower? See how we can amplify our natural abilities in amazing ways.
Dive into the universe at the tiniest – and weirdest – of scales.
Meet the surprising, oddball worlds moving around our solar system.
Visit strange, frozen worlds to discover the bizarre ice that forms beyond Earth.
Discover the powerful volcanic eruptions that have shaped worlds across our solar system.
What are the weirdest worlds in our solar system, and how did they come to be?
Discover the dramatic forces creating spectacular weather on neighboring planets and moons.
Explore big discoveries that have revolutionized our understanding of the universe.
Explore the spectacular cosmic phenomenon of a total solar eclipse.