October 3.
As part of its Archaeology series, The Learning Channel airs “The Struggle of the Angkor,’' hosted by actor John Rhys-Davies. This half-hour program looks at recent efforts to preserve the 124-square-mile network of ancient ruins located in the jungle of Northwest Cambodia. Air time: 8 p.m. (EDT).
October 7.
PBS presents “Shamu TV: Discovering Animal Disguises,’' a 40-minute program that examines how marine animals use camouflage to hunt and hide from predators. Students with questions about the marine life featured during the presentation can put them to an expert by calling: (800) 23-SHAMU. Check local listings for air times.
October 8.
The Discovery Channel premieres a new five-part mini-series, The Brain: Our Universe Within. The programs, to be shown back-to-back, explore the different facets and characteristics of the human brain, suggesting that the mind is simply a network of biochemical reactions. They also touch on such topics as anatomical evolution, perception, memory, intelligence, creativity, and emotions and provide some of the latest scientific findings concerning personality and behavior. Air time: 12 p.m. (EDT).
October 18.
As part of its Frontline series, PBS airs “School Colors,’' a two-and-a-half-hour documentary that follows a turbulent year at the racially mixed Berkeley (Calif.) High School. The program examines the conflicts that arise over political correctness, multiculturalism, and race. Air time: 9 p.m. (EDT).
October 19.
PBS presents “Skeletons in the Sand,’' the season premiere of its New Explorer series. The hour-long episode follows University of Chicago paleontologist Paul Sereno to the Sahara Desert, where he makes one of the most important dinosaur bone discoveries of the century. Air time: 8 p.m. (EDT).
October 31.
The Discovery Channel launches a new season of Rediscovering America, the acclaimed American history series, with David Hartman, former anchor of Good Morning, America, hosting. The one-hour premiere episode takes Hartman to Salem, Mass., where he learns about the infamous witch trials and our Puritan ancestors, who themselves were victims of persecution. Air time: 10 p.m. (EST).
