In 1888, a group of people that included geographers, explorers, teachers, cartographers, military officers and financiers, sat around a large table to discuss a common love of knowledge and their thirst for exploration and achievement. These people embodied an era that was marked by research, invention and change. They spoke of organising a society that would "increase the diffusion of geographical knowledge". The entity they were about to create would become the largest non-profit scientific and educational institution in the world - the National Geographic Society.

After 114 years the Society continues to develop new and exciting ways for broadening their window on the world and has crossed many milestones on this eventful journey. Now there comes a new adventure. In September 1997 the world's first National Geographic Channel launched in Europe and Australia. In July 1998 National Geographic Channel Asia was launched and has built a loyal and devoted following. The word spread quickly and now the Channels have grown to be available in over 142 countries, are seen in more than 145 million homes and in 23 languages.

Right now there are as many as 200 National Geographic teams on assignment around the globe seeking to obtain knowledge so that we may all know more of the world upon which we live. You can see some of their award winning programs on your National Geographic Channel.

National Geographic documentaries have won more than 800 awards over the past 35 years. A renowned blend of reporting and photography tells the true stories of Earth's peoples, wildlife, natural history, anthropology, archaeology and adventure. Compelling storytelling and breathtaking vision bring to viewers a lively quest for knowledge, a passion for adventure, a taste for the exotic and the powerful experience of "being there". Explore mysterious ocean depths or rain forests populated by the world's most endangered species. Witness history such as Sir Edmund Hillary's incredible feats, be amazed by Jane Goodall's gentle manner and visit places you may never have known existed!