Watch Beyond a Year in Space

Beyond a Year in Space is a captivating and informative documentary series from PBS that chronicles the experiences of NASA astronaut Scott Kelly during his historic yearlong stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The show features interviews with Kelly and his crewmates, as well as a number of experts and scientists who provide context and background on the challenges and opportunities of long-term space travel.

Throughout the series, viewers are given an in-depth look at the rigorous physical and mental training required for a mission of this magnitude, as well as the various experiments and projects that Kelly and his colleagues performed while in orbit. From growing plants and testing new technologies, to studying the effects of extended spaceflight on the human body, the show offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the day-to-day reality of life onboard the ISS.

In addition to exploring the scientific aspects of the mission, the series delves into the personal and emotional journey of Kelly and his family. With his twin brother Mark serving as his ground-based counterpart for comparison, Kelly undergoes a battery of physical and psychological tests before, during, and after his time in space. Through it all, the show examines the toll that extended isolation and confinement can take on an individual's mental health, and how the need for human connection and support can never be underestimated.

Another highlight of the series is the inclusion of interviews with other astronauts who have completed long-duration missions, such as Peggy Whitson and Jeff Williams. These seasoned spaceflight veterans provide valuable insights and advice based on their experiences, and offer a glimpse into how the field of space exploration has evolved over the years.

The show also showcases the promising developments in space exploration, particularly the recent successes in private spaceflight by companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin. Viewers are introduced to astronaut Jessica Meir, who was part of NASA's first all-female spacewalk, and Victor Glover, the first Black astronaut to spend an extended period of time aboard the ISS. The series explores how these milestones are paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive field of space exploration.

Overall, Beyond a Year in Space is a comprehensive and engaging overview of the challenges and triumphs of long-term spaceflight. Whether you're a science enthusiast, a space buff, or just curious about what life is like in orbit, this series offers a fascinating look at the human side of space exploration.

Beyond a Year in Space is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on November 15, 2017.