If you have never seen Wonders Of The Solar System (BBC2) then you are missing out! Before reading this I urge you to go here and watch the series from beginning to end NOW! I don't know how long it's going to be on BBC iPlayer, so move it.
The series is fronted by "Rock Star Physicist" Prof Brian Cox, the man who has single handedly made science accessible to millions. He doesn't talk down to you. He tells you about his passion in the most enthusiastic way! He is a breath of fresh air in a somewhat muggy and misunderstood area of utmost importance - namely science, generally.
In this particular series Brain explores the more unusual, interesting and downright unbelievable aspects of our solar system. The five part series started some weeks ago and has had me hooked ever since, talking about the Sun, moons, atmospheres, gasses, life and beauty throughout our barren surroundings. Utilising some of Earth's most beautiful and demonstrative landscapes (and seascapes) he brings what could be a heavy topic to life with bursting colour and passion. And my interest was held for one reason more than any other; Prof Brian Cox MAKES you feel his love for what he's exploring. He's like a child (in the nicest possible way), speaking about planets, moons and atmospheres as a child would about 'the best new toy around'. He MAKES you feel like you want to know more and he gives you just that.
The series is a triumph because Brian achieves something rare - he manages to tell us about something we know nothing about, something most of us would never even think of looking into, and makes us WANT to follow up on it. His previous appearances on Horizon have encouraged me to look into string theory, quantum physics and - more specifically - the work done at CERN. I now have a passion for science that wasn't there when I was at school. It's because of Brian. And this series has, I am not ashamed to admit, moved me almost to tears on many occasions, most of all in the closing minutes of tonight's show. Never has a conclusion hammered home a point like this. Exploring the space around us and the bodies who hang suspended in her is intrinsic to our understanding of the Universe, possibly leading to the most unimaginable discoveries. The faster people realise how important the heavens are the better.
Science is cool again, it's never been more interesting and accessible. Brought to our homes with genuine passion and evident competence, Wonders is simply a masterpiece. Brought to you buy a master. If there is one name that everyone should know right now it's Professor Brian Cox. You can learn more about the man and what he does by clicking this link. If you have Twitter you can follow him here. I highly recommend you do. The man is, for want of a less gushing description, the most interesting man in the world.
Verdict: 9/10 (losing one point for only being 5 episodes long. I want 50 episodes).
