This episode looks at a solar phenomenon called coronal mass ejection - violent eruptions from the sun's surface - examining just how damaging a CME could be and how astronomers, using two new satellites that will travel closer to the sun than ever before, can better prepare us for its impact. A well-known example of a CME was recorded in 1859, when a spectacular blood-red aurora borealis appeared across America. Earlier that same day, in a leafy garden in the UK, a gentleman astronomer had noted a 'white light flare' on the sun's surface. The two events were linked, and it is now known that the flare caused the aurora. Back then, it was considered an astronomical curiosity, but when it happens again, it will be a different story. For the modern, technological world such a violent solar phenomenon could be devastating.

This edition looks at Britain's attempt to become a major player in the modern space race. From Scotland's wild northern shore, where Britain's first spaceport is planned, to the team planning Britain's new rocket system, the programme explores the technology behind a quiet revolution in Britain's space industry. Driving the resurgence of 'space Britannia' is a new breed of spacecraft - micro-satellites. As many as 12,000 of them will be built and launched worldwide over the next decade, and Britain is aiming for a slice of the action. Also, guest presenter Tim Peake celebrates Britain's past achievements in space and finds out where it all went wrong.