The Quest For Tonewood

Throughout history there have been references and examples in literature, art and philosophy of an increased awareness of life while under the influence of extreme emotions - these have become known as Peak Experiences. Soon after Colin Wilson became aware of this phenomena in the 1960s he wondered about its history and how its power could be harnessed, thus began a 40 year investigation.

Japan's Classical period featured stunning natural colors and dyeing techniques. A fifth-generation Kyoto dye craftsman is rediscovering this tradition, resulting in a rich expression of hues.

Actor Ardal O'Hanlon (Father Ted) explores some of the most important archaeological finds in Ireland's history, revealing how many have been used as an important tool for nation-building on both sides of the border. Speaking to world-renowned experts, he unravels a forgotten time period, when a team of Americans from Harvard University, a Nazi archaeologist from Austria, and a Welsh geography professor dug up ancient sites across the country. Their pioneering work answered questions about the Celts, and what it means to be Irish.

The story of an extraordinary scientific adventure - the attempt to control gravity. For centuries, the precise workings of gravity have confounded the greatest scientific minds, and the idea of controlling gravity has been seen as little more than a fanciful dream. Yet in the mid 1990s, UK defence manufacturer BAE Systems began a groundbreaking project code-named Greenglow, which set about turning science fiction into reality. On the other side of the Atlantic, Nasa was simultaneously running its own Breakthrough Propulsion Physics Project.

"Napoleon's Obsession: The Quest for Egypt" details the real facts behind a little-known account in Napoleon's illustrious military career. Those who do know of the French leader's invasion of Egypt, and the so-called Battle of the Pyramids, may have fallen victim to one of the best public relations campaigns in history. As we learn in this documentary, hosted by renown Egyptologist Bob Brier, Bonaparte's attempt to conquer Eqypt was nothing short of an exercise in vanity.

Second Genesis follows planetary scientist Carolyn Porco as she explores what it takes to look for life beyond Earth, and what conditions are required for life to exist. Porco makes the case that Saturn’s moon Enceladus with its plumes of water vapor spewing into space, confirmed organic materials, and evidence of hydrothermal vents at the bottom of its liquid ocean is the most promising place to look. Could Enceladus be the key to proving once and for all that life is not unique to Earth? And what it would mean both scientifically, and spiritually if we found evidence of a true second genesis right here in our own galactic back yard?