Seeing in the Dark

Timothy Ferris' PBS-aired Seeing in the Dark is one of the best astronomy programs since the landmark series Cosmos. Based on Ferris' bestselling 2002 book, the documentary not only offers a joyously inspiring celebration of amateur astronomy, but also a compelling meditation on the ways in which observing the universe takes us out of ourselves (to paraphrase Einstein). Employing a combination of personal memoir, a worldwide survey of amateur astronomy, and state-of-the-art visual effects, Ferris takes viewers on a guided tour—from our solar system to the most distant observable objects. Presented in high-definition, this spectacular display of nature's finest eye-candy plays like an astronomer's dream, all the more impressive because most of the astrophotography on display was created with equipment readily available to amateur stargazers. Directed by Nigel Ashcroft, a 30-year veteran of British TV, and featuring music by Mark Knopfler and Guy Fletcher (of Dire Straits fame), DVD extras here include an audio commentary and interview with Ferris. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Shannon)