Smithsonian HD Network

United States United States

Smithsonian HD Network presents documentary and factual programming drawn from the institution’s archives and research. The channel focuses on American history, natural sciences, space exploration, and cultural heritage, often featuring archival footage and expert commentary. Programs cover topics such as military technology, paleontology, aviation, and the lives of U.S. presidents. The network’s content is produced in high definition and avoids commercial interruptions during many of its documentary blocks. It is available through cable and satellite providers across the United States.

Viewers can access the channel’s schedule through their local TV guide or the network’s website, which lists upcoming programs by date and time. Some episodes are also available for streaming on demand through participating cable platforms. The network does not air movies, music videos, or live sports. Its programming is designed for an audience interested in educational content and institutional storytelling, without reliance on reality series or shopping segments.

Schedule
How Did They Fix That?
00:00 - 01:00
How Did They Fix That?
Iter
Series, Documentary
At ITER in southern France, teams move massive reactor components, repair a leaking cryostat and test giant robotic arms as they build the world's largest fusion experiment with extraordinary precision.
Ice Airport Alaska
01:00 - 02:00
Ice Airport Alaska
Live And Let Fly
Series, Documentary, Aviation
A lone bush pilot races to stock ultra-marathon checkpoints, a heli pilot risks a sling-load at 4,000 feet and comes inches from disaster, and a vintage DC-3 plane is a village's only lifeline as a storm closes in.
Air Disasters
02:00 - 03:00
Air Disasters
Dangerous Approach
Series, Documentary, Aviation
A Colorado commuter flight crashes five miles short of the runway and the reasons why rock the airline industry.
Air Disasters
03:00 - 04:00
Air Disasters
River Runway
Series, Documentary, Aviation
Pilots attempt to land their Boeing 737 in an Indonesian river after losing their engines and electrical power.
Air Disasters
04:00 - 05:00
Air Disasters
Disaster at Tenerife
Series, Documentary, Aviation
Two 747s collide on the runway of a small airport in the Canary Islands, resulting in history's deadliest air crash.