A major TV event when originally broadcast on the Discovery Channel in early 2008, When We Left Earth is essential viewing for space-travel enthusiasts. Packaged in a slim metal case, this four-disc set features a handy fold-out viewer's guide offering plenty of background information about each episode in the six-part series. Narrated by Gary Sinise, the material is presented in a straightforward chronology, beginning with the selection of the “Gemini 7” astronauts in the first episode (“Ordinary Supermen”) to the ongoing promise of the International Space Station in the final episode (“Home in Space”). Every milestone—and disaster—is chronicled in detail, and the benefit of NASA's complete cooperation is immediately apparent: we've all seen some of this footage before, but much of it is exclusive, enabling the filmmakers to create a strikingly visual history of NASA's extraordinary teamwork. This is most apparent in the control-room footage during many tense moments throughout the eventful decade that fulfilled John F. Kennedy's mandate to land astronauts on the moon (and return them safely) before the end of the 1960s. Capturing the adventure, bravery, and global unity that informed the NASA space missions, this series is sure to stimulate the viewer's sense of wonder. Extensive DVD extras include official NASA films, exclusive interviews with astronauts and other NASA personnel, and individual mission clips. When We Left Earth looks fantastic on Blu-ray, but the meticulously restored NASA footage (most of it dating from 40 to 50 years ago) is impressive on standard DVD as well. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Shannon)
When We Left Earth: The NASA Missions
(2008) 4 discs. 258 min. DVD: $49.98, Blu-ray: $69.98. Image Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). Volume 23, Issue 6
When We Left Earth: The NASA Missions
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