The twentieth century witnessed the arrival of science as the most potent force a country could wield - in peace or at war. This series of six programs shows how scientific breakthroughs in the practice of warfare have shaped the age in which we live. Each episode examines a key area of science - from physics to engineering and the life sciences - and shows the impact they had both at the time and on later generations. Scientists and military planners explain the role they have played in the discoveries and the series features both archive and specially shot film.

Echoes of War
6/24/08
This episode of Science at War looks at the achievements of the young radar scientists on both sides of the Atlantic who carried out their pioneering experiments in the shadow of war. No single scientific invention was to have a more devastating effect on the enemy. Radar not only helped the Allies win the Battle of the Atlantic and allowed Britain and America to carry out bombing campaigns over Germany it also ensured the D-Day Landings in Normandy were a success. The unprecedented scientific collaboration that came about because of radar would transform the face of British and American science and its relationship to war.

Rocket Men
7/1/08
Missiles: The story of how the rocket proved instrumental in defining the terms of Cold War strategy and how the shadow of the missile is still cast over global politics.

Enemy of All Mankind
7/22/08
Biological Warfare: For the first time Japanese and American scientists talk about their experiences in germ warfare research.

Full Spectrum Dominance
7/29/08
The United States is now pursuing the most massive ever marshalling of raw science to the needs of warfare. Before the dust settled from Desert Storm, American scientists were working to win the next war.

Tuesdays beginning 6/24/08 from 9-10 p.m. ET

none