Over the MOON!

DARA Ó BRIAIN on his journey of lunar discovery

- JUDY EWENS

WONDERS OF THE MOON
NEW TUE & WED, 9PM, CHANNEL 5 FACTUAL

Having studied mathematics and theoretical physics at University College Dublin, comedian Dara Ó Briain enjoys a parallel career fronting science shows such as the BBC’s Stargazing Live. This week, the former Mock the Week host puts on his scientific hat again for Channel 5’s new documentary series Wonders of the Moon.

The two-parter sees Dara, who is also an amateur astronomer and astrophotographer, explore the impact the moon has on life on Earth, including how it governs time while its gravitational pull causes low and high tides.

Here, in an exclusive interview, Dara, 51, tells us more about Earth’s only natural satellite, which astronauts are planning to set foot on again in 2025 in the first crewed lunar landing since 1972…

What was the thinking behind this series?