Synopsis

This is an examination of the modern era's most intricate, devastating, and contentious engineering breakdowns. Through 3-D animation, insights from forensic specialists, and archival disaster footage, we explore the causes of these failures and trace how misfortune ultimately spurred innovation. Featured stories include: the U.S. Marines’ AV-8 Harrier “Jump Jet”; the Ford Explorer/Firestone rollover incidents; the fire aboard the Piper Alpha offshore oil rig; a high-speed train derailment in Ge