Discover the human side of space exploration in new OU / BBC programme

Posted on 27 October 2025 • Science, maths, computing and technology, TV and radio

From Monday 27 October a new four-part part OU/BBC series, Once Upon a Time in Space, begins on BBC Two and iPlayer at 9.00pm.

In this series, we hear the remarkable, unusual and sometimes moving history of humans in space and consider what the consequences are for the future of humankind.

Told by the people with firsthand experience and those who made it possible, fascinating stories take us through the decades since Gagarin’s first flight, and encompass remarkable achievements, tragic losses, left field experiments, renegade characters, and an ever-shifting power play between the main spacefaring nations.

Through a mixture of powerful testimony, incredible archive and observational, actuality driven scenes, this series will tell the personal stories of those intimately involved in the exploration of space.

The series was supported by OU academics, Professor Mahesh Anand, Dr Victoria Pearson and Dr Marjan Ajevski, who provided expertise and insight during its development.

Dr Victoria Pearson said:

“The story of our exploration of space has been told many times, but often through the lens of advancing technologies that enable us to push back humanity’s frontiers. 

“Watching this programme will show viewers the emotional, ethical and societal influences that have brought us to the beginning of a new era of space exploration and use.”

Prof Mahesh Anand added:

“Space exploration offers limitless opportunities for engaging with the best of human creativity, imagination, and endurance. Arguably, there is no better way to inspire others than to lead by example, and this is exactly what the early pioneers of human space flight did, some losing their lives for the greater cause of their fellow citizens.

“OUATIS is a powerful reminder of how space exploration can play a vital role in bringing people together as one, offering hope, and overcoming any prejudices and differences.”

Supporting Online content:

Visit our Broadcast & Partnerships site OU Connect where you can find an interactive flipbook offering extraordinary insights into the human exploration of space.

(NB: this site may not be live or complete prior to broadcast)

This series was commissioned by Broadcast & Partnerships and is supported by the Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics and the Faculty of Business and Law.

• Commissioned by Dr Caroline Ogilvie, Director, Broadcast & Partnerships
• Academic Consultants:  Mahesh Anand, Dr Victoria Pearson and Dr Marjan Ajevski
• Media Fellow: Dr Zhraa Alhaboby and Dr Sophie Doherty
• Broadcast Project Manager: Clair Robinson
• Supporting Online Content: Patrick Kearney

Header image credit: BBC / KEO Films / NASA