For centuries, humans have wondered: Are we alone? Inspired by pioneers like H.G. Wells and Winston Churchill, science fiction explored alien life long before science caught up. Now, as technology advances, we seek life beyond Earth in extreme environments, meteorites, and distant planets.

1. The Solar System

Factual

Documentary

With our knowledge of the universe increasing, the possibility of life evolving in oceans on other planets in the solar system seems more real than ever. Scientists across disciplines explore what life forms found in these environments would be like. Would they contain DNA? Would they be microbial or carbon-based organisms?

Life Beyond Earth

Series 1

What would life forms found on other planets be like? Would they contain DNA? 

Tipping Point

Ben Shephard hosts the quiz show in which players take on an extraordinary machine.

Ben Shephard hosts the quiz show in which three players take on an extraordinary machine in the hope of winning a cash jackpot.

Lingo

Three pairs of contestants must work out the words in the Lingo grids and Puzzlewords.

Adil Ray hosts as housemates Malachy and Dan from London, sporty sisters Tramika and Niasha from Birmingham, and mother and daughter Liela and Sarah from Croydon seek supremacy.

The search for life beyond Earth is advancing, with researchers exploring exoplanets and moons for habitable conditions. Scientists use advanced telescopes and spectrographs to detect planets by observing their effects on stars.