Brian Cox and Robin Ince visit Canberra for the first of 4 special episodes recorded in Australia. This week they visit the amazing Canberra Deep Space Communication Centre where scientists communicate with, and track the 200 or so spacecraft that are currently exploring our vast solar system and even beyond. They are joined by Astrophysicists Mark Cheung and Alan Duffy, Nobel prize winner Brian Schmidt and comedian Alice Fraser as they track legendary space craft like Voyager, still sending back messages from deep in space some 40 plus years after it first launched. They discover how despite these incredible missions we still don't know what 97% of our universe is made of, and how so many of these explorations are vital to our understanding of one very important planet - our own.Producer: Caroline Steel Executiver Producer: Alexandra Feachem

Join Nobel laureate Brian Schmidt, renowned for co-discovering dark energy, as he dives into the universe's accelerating expansion. He discusses the historical breakthroughs made by Hubble and the pivotal role of supernovae in reshaping our understanding of the cosmos. Hear about his transition from researcher to university leader and his unexpected venture into winemaking near Canberra, where he grapples with climate challenges. Finally, discover the whimsical idea of a 'Nobel wine' to celebrate research achievements!

Professor Brian Schmidt, a Nobel Prize-winning astrophysicist, joins the conversation to explore the origins of the universe. He delves into the awe-inspiring journey from the Big Bang to the formation of stars and galaxies. The discussion touches on whimsical theories, like the universe being the result of a giant seed or a cosmic flatulence, before grounding itself in scientific explanation. Schmidt emphasizes our profound connection to the cosmos, revealing that the elements in our bodies were forged in stars, highlighting the interconnectedness of all existence.