Watch Richard Hammond's How to Build a Planet

Richard Hammond's How to Build a Planet is an informative and visually stunning documentary series that explores the amazing process of how planets are formed from start to finish. Hosted by the beloved British presenter Richard Hammond, this four-part series takes audiences on a thrilling journey through the cosmos to understand how the universe creates these incredible celestial bodies.

The show begins with an introduction to the basic building blocks of our solar system, focusing on the mix of gases, dust, rocks, and ice that are found in space. Hammond expertly explains how these raw materials come together and trigger the formation of planets, taking us on a fascinating ride through the history of the universe.

Over the course of the four 60-minute episodes, Hammond shows us how planets are constructed, how they gain their distinguishing features, and how they eventually become the dynamic worlds that we know today. Using cutting-edge computer graphics and stunning footage from NASA's archives, the series offers a rich and detailed look at each stage of a planet's formation, from its genesis as an embryo planetesimal to its rise to full planetary status.

One of the most impressive aspects of How to Build a Planet is its ability to explain complex scientific ideas in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Hammond is an expert communicator with a gift for breaking down difficult concepts into digestible chunks. Whether he's talking about gravity waves, magnetospheres or the process of accretion, he does so with clear and concise language that never feels patronizing or dumbed down.

The series also features a wide range of experts, including leading astrophysicists and geologists, who offer commentary and insights throughout the show. These interviews add valuable context to Hammond's narration, providing deeper understanding and clarity on some of the more complex topics covered.

The episodes of How to Build a Planet are structured around distinct stages in the process of planet formation. Each episode focuses on a different stage, providing detailed explanations of the science behind each phase. In the first episode, "Embryo," Hammond looks at the earliest stages of planet formation, examining the conditions that trigger the creation of planetesimals. He also explains how the presence of nearby stars can influence the process, shaping the eventual size and character of a planet.

The second episode, "Rocky Planets," explores the different types and sizes of planets that form close to a star. Hammond examines how the characteristics of their orbits and atmosphere have a profound impact on these rocky worlds - affecting everything from the temperature to the presence of exotic substances like diamonds.

In the third episode, "Gas Giants," we learn about the formation of the largest planets in a solar system. Hammond explores the complex process of accretion and the delicate balance between gravity and pressure that allows these gas giants to grow into their massive sizes.

The final episode, "Life," looks at the most intriguing question of all - can a planet sustain life? Hammond examines the factors that make a planet habitable, from the presence of water to the stability of its orbit. He also explores the history of life on Earth, examining how our planet's unique conditions and evolution helped create the diverse forms of life that exist today.

Throughout the series, Hammond's infectious energy and passion for science shine through. He has a genuine curiosity about the universe and a natural talent for storytelling that makes the series both informative and entertaining. How to Build a Planet is a must-watch for anyone who has ever been fascinated by the mysteries of the cosmos - it's a journey that is both awe-inspiring and enlightening.