The latest national and international news, exploring the day's events from a global perspective.

A look at M51 aka the Whirlpool Galaxy. By examining it at many magnifications and wavelengths the programme will build up a detailed portrait. Show more

Liz McIvor charts the struggles of the builders and engineers tasked with creating a landscape of canals over the rugged terrain surrounding the Pennine hills. Show more

Nigel Planer narrates the story of the struggle to make programmes for children in the days before everything went digital.

Rhod Gilbert joins up with Joy Division and New Order bassist Peter Hook for a road trip across northern England and the Midlands to discover the UK's best part-time band. Show more

Rock legend and tour bus aficionado Rick Wakeman takes us on a trip through the decades in a first-hand account of rockers on the road from the late 50s to the 80s and beyond. Show more

Physicist Dr Helen Czerski and meteorologist John Hammond examine Britain's recent extreme weather and ask if future seasons will include ever harsher winters. Show more

Documentary featuring the fascinating lives of Britain's beautiful butterflies filmed in exquisite detail, and also a celebration of their enduring appeal to the British people. Show more

David Dimbleby tells the story of Britain through its art and treasure, from Henry VIII's accession in 1509 to the premiere of Shakespeare's Henry VIII 100 years later. Show more

Nigel Planer narrates the story of the struggle to make programmes for children in the days before everything went digital.