Stream now with the PBS app / Watch Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025 at 9 p.m. on KPBS TV + Sunday, Sept. 7 at 3 p.m. on KPBS TV
Discover the science behind Leonardo da Vinci's masterpieces — and Mona Lisa's legendary smile. Leonardo da Vinci was the quintessential Renaissance man, accomplished in engineering, fine art, and biology, among other disciplines.
Today, his centuries-old “inventions” seem to predict our modern age: contraptions similar to parachutes, army tanks, hang gliders, and robots fill his notebooks.
But the man and the techniques behind masterpieces like “Mona Lisa” remain a mystery. On the 500th anniversary of da Vinci’s death, NOVA goes to Italy to explore his life and work.
Then, in the basement of the Louvre, scientists and art restoration experts deploy cutting-edge technology to (digitally) peel back the layers of da Vinci’s works. Ultimately, they’ll reveal the impact of his science on his art and his art on his science.
Watch On Your Schedule: The full episode is available to stream with the PBS app. Watch the best of PBS anytime, anywhere on the free PBS app. Stream your favorite PBS shows on-demand and livestream shows from your local station, all from your favorite device.
Extend your viewing window with KPBS Passport, streaming for members at $60 or more yearly, using your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Fire or Chromecast. Learn how to activate your benefit now.
NOVA is on Facebook, Instagram #NOVAnext
