Original version

BBC Two Scotland

BBC Four

Simulcast of network BBC Two in high definition.

BBC Two HD

BBC Two Northern Ireland

Until 03/01/2009 BBC Two Wales (analogue) was known simply as BBC Two Wales. BBC Two Wales (digital) was BBC 2W. From 03/01/2009 BBC Two Wales schedules on both analogue and digital became identical

BBC Two Wales

BBC Two England

England

BBC Four HD

In Search of Science

Brian Cox

Rebecca Edwards

Peter Leonard

Andrew Cohen

In Search of Science: Episode 3: Clear Blue Skies

Factual: Science & Nature

Clear Blue Skies

Episode 3

Episode 3: Clear Blue Skies

BBC Two - In Search of Science, Clear Blue Skies

Professor Cox ends his homage to British science by looking at how discoveries are made.

Professor Brian Cox finishes the series by looking at the happy accidents that have led to scientific breakthroughs and considering just how discoveries are made.

Professor Brian Cox guides viewers through 350 years of British science to reveal what science really is, who the people are who practise it, and how it is inextricably linked to the past, present and future of each and every one of us.

British science has a long track record of accidental discoveries improving our lot. Wondering why the sky is blue helped British scientists crack bacterial infection, whilst looking for a way to make quinine helped make our world a much more colourful place, as it led to the discovery of the first synthetic organic dye. But is this the best way to carry on? 

Professor Brian Cox ends his homage to British science by looking at how discoveries are made, asking whether it is better to let the scientists do their own thing, and hope for happy accidents, or to only back scientific winners at the risk of missing the occasional gems.

BBC Two

Knowledge, drama, comedy and the arts for a broad adult audience.

BBC Two is a lively channel of depth and substance, carrying a range of knowledge-building programming complemented by great drama, comedy and arts.

Professor Brian Cox introduces Britain's science heroes.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

In Search of Science

Episode 3: Clear Blue Skies

Contributors

Genres

Series

BBC Two Scotland

About BBC Two