Air date: 2008-11-24

Runtime: 60 min

The first programme is the story of Earth's difficult birth and how the formation of our moon set us on a unique course to being a planet ripe for life.

Air date: 2008-12-01

Runtime: 60 min

650 million years ago Earth froze, pushing life to the edge of extinction.

Air date: 2008-12-08

Runtime: 60 min

Scientists believe that evolution has been shaped by major catastrophes that have almost extinguished all life on earth. Using the latest CGI and featuring scientific experts, Tony Robinson investigates these theories. 250 million years ago, 95% of life was wiped off the face of the Earth in the biggest extinction event ever. But what was responsible?

Air date: 2008-12-15

Runtime: 60 min

65 million years ago, the planet was rocked by yet another massive event when, seemingly out of nowhere, the mighty dinosaurs were suddenly wiped off the face of Earth.

Air date: 2008-12-22

Runtime: 60 min

So far, humans have been lucky to not experience a catastrophe on a global scale. Though they are the most powerful species on this planet, it's easy to forget that the forces that wiped out many successful species in the past are still at work.