This program focuses on the scientific achievements of four U. S. universities. At Indiana University, Vaclav Hlavaty solved the differential equations of unified gravitational and electromagnetic field thus providing proof for Einstein's unified field theory. Erwin Schrodinger and Karl Schwarzschild, pioneers in this research, are also discussed. From the New York University, Dr. Serge A. Korff directed a study of the effects of cosmic radiation from a high altitude observatory built on Mt. Wrangell in Alaska. His plane pilot was Dr. Terris Moore, president of the University of Alaska. University of Pittsburgh's Dr. Buchsbaum, professor of zoology, worked with colleagues to research how cells bathed in a nutrient fluid react to drugs and disease. A film shows these cell reactions under a phase-contrast microscope. Under the direction of Henry J. Gomberg, William Kerr, assistant director of the Michigan Memorial Phoenix Project and assistant professor of electrical engineering at the University of Michigan are investigating peaceful uses of atomic energy. They have developed a beta ray microscope that uses radioactive isotopes as tracers in specimens under microscopic investigation. This allows them to see how atoms are distributed in alloys and tracing the path of carbon in plants.

BBC Producer Andrew Miller-Jones introduces this second exchange program produced in Baltimore and sent to Great Britain. Johns Hopkins University's Applied Physics Lab, sponsored by the Navy's Bureau of Ordinance, is featured. Dr. Gibson discusses cosmic rays and instruments used to do research on the effects of high altitude flying. Mr. Riblet explains how telemetering works and shows instruments used to transmit information from a distance. Mr. Miller-Jones exhibits cameras developed by Clyde T. Holiday to take photos in outer space and some of the pictures and films taken by these cameras. A chart shows the current maximum altitude of flight (nearly 80,000 feet) and the effects of altitude on pilots. A pilot tests the U. S. Air Force-developed pressure suit, and pictures show the U.S. Navy full-pressure suit.

In this first in a series of programs on space exploration, Dr. John Strong describes the layers of the earth's atmosphere. Heinz Haber discusses the problems that humans must overcome to travel in space. They will need to surmount oxygen deprivation, depressurization, ultraviolet and cosmic radiation, and zero gravity and weightlessness. Protecting man from these elements must be solved before manned space travel can occur.