The meteoric rise of renewable energy has consequences for our electricity supply. While coal and gas fired power stations can generate electricity whenever you need it, renewables are intermittent by nature. So we need a backup plan for when the wind stops or the sun goes down. All over the world, engineers and scientists are racing to solve one key problem; how to safely and efficiently store electricity at a huge scale but at a low cost. The quest is producing some truly remarkable ideas and this episode details three of them.
The documentary follows the music career of Kid Cudi from the release of 'Day n Nite' in 2008 through present day recordings. Friends and producers illustrate his story in conjunction with concert footage and never before seen behind-the-scenes. The film is a deep dive into the life and career of the hip-hop artist. Candid interviews with the rapper's inner circle and never-before-seen concert material come together to tell the story of a talented yet troubled youth striving to build a career in music until his debut 2008 single garnered attention across social media platforms, launching Kid Cudi on his meteoric rise to the spotlight.
Chris Lintott and Maggie Aderin-Pocock report on the reaction to the dramatic announcement of the discovery of phosphine gas in the clouds of Venus, a gas that could be a sign of life. Venus remains an inhospitable and unlikely host. But if not Venus, where in the solar system is the best place to look for alien life? Chris and Maggie investigate the latest missions to Mars and the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn. Away from the search for life, Pete Lawrencepreviews the best meteor showers of the year.
This documentary chronicles the triumphs and hurdles of brothers Barry, Maurice and Robin Gibb, otherwise known as the Bee Gees. The iconic trio, who found early fame in the 1960s, went on to write over 1,000 songs, including twenty #1 hits throughout their storied career. The film follows the Bee Gee’s meteoric rise as they rode the highs of fame and fortune, negotiated the vagaries of the ever-shifting music business and navigated the complexities of working so intimately alongside family. The story takes us from their childhood in 1950s Australia to the artistic crucible of 1960s London and to the sundrenched coast of Miami, Florida. The band created a distinct sound with their three-part harmonizing, their melodic voices forming a new kind of instrument.
Queen, the world's reigning rock champions, have captivated audiences for over five decades with their groundbreaking music and electrifying performances. From their humble beginnings in the suburbs of West London to their rise as rock legends, Queen has crafted some of the most iconic moments in rock history. Their hits, including the revolutionary ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ continue to resonate with fans worldwide. This documentary takes you on a thrilling journey through Queen's greatest moments, highlighting their indelible mark on music and culture. Join us as we delve into the band's phenomenal story, exploring their meteoric rise, their unparalleled showmanship, and the profound impact of their legendary frontman, Freddie Mercury. Witness Queen's remarkable journey from their formation to their unforgettable Live Aid performance, and experience the magic of their music that has stood the test of time. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to their music, this documentary offers an intimate look at the band's legacy, their innovative sound, and the unforgettable moments that cemented their place in rock and roll immortality.
Lucy Worsley continues her journey through Russia in the footsteps of the Romanovs, the most powerful royal dynasty in modern European history. In this episode she examines the extraordinary reign of Catherine the Great, and the traumatic conflict with napoleonic France that provides the setting for the novel War and Peace. At the magnificent palace of Peterhof near St Petersburg, Lucy charts the meteoric rise of Catherine the Great, who seized the Russian throne from her husband Peter III in 1762 and became the most powerful woman in the world. Catherine was a woman of huge passions - for art, for her adopted country (she was German by birth) and for her many lovers. Catherine expanded her empire through military victories overseas, while at home she encouraged education and introduced smallpox inoculation to Russia. But Catherine struggled to introduce deeper reforms, and the institution of serfdom remained largely unchanged. Lucy explains how this injustice fuelled a violent rebellion. Nevertheless, Catherine left Russia more powerful on the world stage than ever. But all she had achieved looked set to be undone when Napoleon invaded Russia in 1812. Lucy relives the pivotal battle of Borodino, when the Russian army finally confronted the French forces; the traumatic destruction of Moscow; and, under Catherine's grandson Alexander, the eventual victory over the French that provided the Romanov dynasty with its most glorious hour.
All over the world, engineers and scientists are racing to solve one key problem; how to safely and efficiently store electricity at a huge scale but at a low cost. The quest is producing some truly remarkable ideas and this episode details three of them.