BBC: The Story of the Solar System

'The nation's go-to woman for all things space... her joy for the subject is boundless' – The Guardian

Take a new look at the world around you.

What is a planet? Is there life on Mars? What makes Earth so special?

Questions about our Solar System have fascinated us for centuries. Based on the latest scientific research, The Story of the Solar System will help you see the planets around us in a whole new light. Using colourful and easy-to-follow infographics, each planet becomes a character with a story of its own to tell, from Jupiter the King of the Solar System to ice oddity Uranus and outlier planet-but-not-a-planet Pluto.

As space scientist Maggie Aderin-Pocock shows us, the story of Earth is best understood as part of its larger family, and The Story of the Solar System will bring that family to life.

Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock has had a passion for space and astronomy since she was a small child. Now a pioneering figure in promoting science to the public, Maggie runs her own company engaging children and adults all over the world with the wonders of space science. Overcoming dyslexia to study at Imperial College, she obtained her degree in Physics and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. As a space scientist, she has spent many years working on novel and bespoke instruments for the space industry, including the James Webb Space Telescope. While doing this she has toured the UK speaking to inner-city schools inspiring the next generation of physicists. In 2006 she was one of six ‘Women of Outstanding Achievement’ winners with GetSET Women and in 2009 she was awarded a Member of the British Empire for her services to science and education. As well as fronting The Sky at Night, Maggie has appeared in numerous programmes including Stargazing Live and Doctor Who Confidential. She is also an Honorary Research Associate at UCL's Department of Physics and Astronomy, and been awarded five honorary doctorates from universities across the country.