Back to Show
Watch Preview
NOVA
Human: Origins
Season 52
Episode 12
Where did humans come from, and what makes us unique? Discover the remarkable origins of Homo sapiens, and the crucial moments of innovation, communication, and ritual that set us on our path.
Support Provided By

53:25
Follow ancient humans’ journey into an icy and perilous new land.

53:27
Discover how Homo sapiens outlasted Neanderthals – and how they helped make us who we are today.

53:25
Follow Homo sapiens as they venture out of Africa and spread farther than any other human species.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:27
Forensic science is put to the test after the first-ever staged multi-vehicle pileup.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:29
A first-of-its-kind experiment aims to stage a multi-vehicle pileup to gain new data on car safety.

1:36:42
After centuries of pseudoscience, researchers examine the causes of racial health disparities.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:41
Follow scientists in a quest to understand how complex forest ecosystems can help cool our planet.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:39
Explore key military technologies in the American colonies’ fight for freedom.

53:32
Follow the investigation into the deadly container ship collision that closed the Port of Baltimore.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:40
Archaeologists uncover new truths about Pompeii, a wealthy Roman playground with dark secrets.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:40
A long-lost ancient cemetery opens the door to a unique period in Egyptian history.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:35
Fossils reveal how birds survived the killer asteroid and became today’s only living dinosaurs.