Our Universe

Our Universe

show

NR, 2023

WISE
68%

WISE Score

6.5

IMDb

Real astronaut Tim Peake takes you through space—educational, safe, but that 6.5 IMDb rating tells you it's no Cosmos.

IMDb6.5
0Common Sense Media
Where to Watch
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Screenwise Verdict

Here's the deal: this is a perfectly fine BBC space documentary with a real astronaut, which sounds great on paper. It's safe, educational, and has the BBC stamp of quality.

But that 6.5 IMDb rating and complete lack of buzz tells the real story—it's probably just... fine. Not bad, not great, just fine. In a world where kids can watch incredible space content on YouTube, stunning NASA footage, or even just rewatch Interstellar, a middling documentary struggles to compete.

If your kid is genuinely into space and you have BritBox anyway, sure, put it on. It won't hurt. But don't expect it to blow anyone's mind or become a favorite. It's the kind of thing that's on in the background during dinner, not appointment viewing.

Age Fit

Best for ages 7-14 who have a genuine interest in space and science. Younger kids might lose focus with documentary pacing, older teens would probably prefer more in-depth content like Neil deGrasse Tyson's stuff.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
82

BBC nature/space documentary hosted by a real astronaut. Educational tone, no inappropriate content, models scientific curiosity and wonder. Pacing is likely calm and documentary-style rather than chaotic, appropriate for family viewing.

Imaginative
75

Journey through the solar system and beyond invites curiosity about space exploration. Tim Peake's unique perspective as one of 602 people to travel to space adds authenticity. However, as a documentary it's more observational than interactive or creativity-sparking.

Safe
92

BBC documentary about space with no content warnings. Kids mode available on platform. Nature/science documentaries are inherently safe viewing with no violence, scary content, or inappropriate material. No concerning elements.

Enriching
78

Educational content about our solar system from an actual astronaut is inherently enriching. Builds knowledge about space, science, and exploration. However, 6.5 IMDb rating suggests it may not be particularly compelling or memorable compared to other space documentaries.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • Hosted by an actual astronaut who's been to space (only 602 humans ever!), which adds serious credibility
  • BBC production quality means solid visuals and scientifically accurate content
  • Safe, educational family viewing that won't surprise you with anything inappropriate
  • Good for kids interested in space who want real science, not sci-fi

What to Watch For

  • That 6.5 IMDb rating isn't great—suggests it may be dry or slow-paced even for a documentary
  • Only available on BritBox, so you need that specific subscription
  • May not hold attention of kids used to faster-paced content like YouTube space videos
  • No reviews or buzz suggests it didn't make much of a splash

Conversation Starters

  • "What do you think it would feel like to be one of only 602 people who've ever been to space?"
  • "Which planet in our solar system would you most want to visit and why?"
  • "What's the coolest thing you learned about space from this?"
  • "Do you think you'd ever want to be an astronaut?"
Stills
Our Universe — still 1
Our Universe — still 2
Our Universe — still 3

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