Uranium: Twisting the Dragon's Tail Episode Rating Graph

At the turn of the 20th century uranium is virtually unknown and basically worthless. Dr Derek Muller shows how, in just a single generation, it became the most desirable and terrifying rock on earth.

Born from the collapse of a star, uranium has brought hope, progress and destruction. It has revolutionized society, from medicine to warfare.

Uranium saves lives, treats cancer and brings hope to millions. Uranium was also a promise of clean limitless power. In a remarkable and haunting journey, Dr Derek Muller takes us to Chernobyl and Fukushima, where uranium became a nightmare. In our energy hungry, warming world, uranium both tempts with unbelievable power and threatens all life on earth. Destroyer and saviour, dream and nightmare: the extraordinary paradox of uranium.