Ancient Discoveries

- Season 1

(2003)

Discover the advancement of time-keeping techniques, from the classic sundial to Ctesibius' use of constant water flow and primitive gear mechanisms, leading up to what is known as the Antikythera mechanism.

An exploration into Galen, a Greek physician in the Roman Empire who pioneered numerous medical techniques, honing his craft on wounded gladiators and soldiers. Evidence exists from a human skull that brain surgery was performed.

Any first look into the field of robotics begins with Heron of Alexandria, a clever machinist who used principles of air compression, wind power, and basic mechanics to swindle religious worshipers and entertain the masses at the theater.