This series takes a fascinating new look at a very old universe. Fifty years after man first ventured into outer space, we examine the greatest secrets of the heavens. Each episode outlines how humans have explored the universe, and scrutinises the discoveries they have made. We look at the 88 official constellations, including the the star that's due to go supernova in the constellation Orion and investigate the 13th zodiac sign that no one talks about.
From space craft sporting sails that catch laser beams, to propulsion engines powered by a bizarre entity known as anti-matter, we investigate the mysteries of the universe, past, present and future. Does life exist on other planets? How did life evolve on Earth? What will life look like on other planets? These and other pertinent questions will be answered.
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The Universe 2: Supernovas
Wed December 24th at 4:00pm
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A stellar explosion, the supernova is the sensational death of a star. It can shine as brightly as 100 billion suns and radiate as much energy as the Sun would emit over 10 billion years. Jets of high-energy light and matter are propelled into space and can cause massive gamma ray bursts and emit intense X-ray radiation for thousands of years. Astronomers believe that this process creates the very building blocks of planets, people and plants.
In this fascinating documentary, we meet the world's leading supernova hunters, and take a look at recorded supernovas throughout history.