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NOVA

NOVA

1974Returning SeriesNext: Feb 25 9pm ET53 Seasons1017 Episodes7.0TMDB
PBS

PBS' premier science series helps viewers of all ages explore the science behind the headlines. Along the way, NOVA demystifies science and technology, and highlights the people involved in scientific pursuits.

Season 53 · Episode 4

Mammal Origins

Aired Feb 11, 2026at 9PM·54m

Uncover the surprising ancient origins of mammals, a story that began long before the dinosaurs' reign. Surveying Earth's tumultuous past reveals how some of our earliest ancestors, the therapsids – creatures that looked like reptiles but were starting to develop mammalian traits – survived multiple global catastrophes. Through remarkable adaptations like burrowing and the emergence of warm-bloodedness, they forged a lineage that persevered against all odds. Fascinating fossil clues and cutting-edge science reveal how a small, resilient group of animals faced extinction events, outlived giants, and ultimately gave rise to the diverse world of mammals we know today, including us.

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When did NOVA Season 53 Episode 4 air?

NOVA Season 53 Episode 4 aired on February 11, 2026 at 9 PM ET.

How long is NOVA Season 53 Episode 4?

This episode runs for approximately 54 minutes.

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