
The Ultimates
Ultimate Explosions chronicles the compelling stories of explosions that have reverberated around the world.

Ultimate Explosions chronicles the compelling stories of explosions that have reverberated around the world.

In a world where nothing is what it seems, there is a lot to discover. Have you ever had an eye floater, let's examine what they are and how often they happen. How does sword swallowing work and how to use Jump Cuts in video editing.

In a world where nothing is what it seems, let's take a look at the depth perception of 3D visuals and discover the Van de Graaff generator. Have you heard of overtone singing, we'll explain this and more in Rethink.

In a world where nothing is what it seems, we'll introduce you to Tilt Shift Photography, Night Hag syndrome and tightrope walking. Plus explore this weeks featured rethinker and tightrope walker Maria Spelterini.

In a world where nothing is what it seems, we'll discuss the animation technique of Rotoscoping, take another look at card tricks, the history of juggling and the popularity of the Smart phone.

In a world where nothing is what it seems, let's play games with colour changing milk. Learn about chroma keys in video editing and do some mental math gymnastics. We'll also explore the Leidenfrost effect and take a look at rethinker Linwood G Dunn.

In a world where nothing is what it seems, we explore tricks using sleight of hand. Play games with a water bottle, take a look at the Dunning Kruger effect and answer the question Is a telescope a time machine?

The M203 Grenade Launcher is a single shot launcher designed to attach under a rifle barrel. Using the latest technology, bits of plastic and a block of aluminum will be melted, molded, and cut to create a snap-on weapon that increases the firepower in a soldier's hands by a long shot.

A battle tank is only as effective as its gun, and for the Stryker vehicle, that's the M68 105mm cannon. A tube of forged steel will be hammered into the one of the most powerful and famous cannons in modern warfare.

At the Cabot factory in Pennsylvania, USA, a block of steel will be transformed by innovation and artistry into the ultimate update of an American classic. The 1911 did tours of duty in both world wars and Vietnam, and is still prized today by collectors and enthusiasts.

When a series of delicate snowflake shaped sheets of Aramid are pressed together, they'll form a piece of headgear that's comfortable enough to wear to war, and tough enough to take a bullet.

When a steel plated hull is fitted with controls on the inside and tracks on the outside, it'll become the Viking BVS10 –an armoured amphibious personnel carrier that can get troops in and out of any combat zone, even if it has to go through snow, sand, or water to get there.

In 48 hours, a block of metal will be formed into the most accurate weapon on earth: the AX-338 Sniper Rifle. In a warzone, police stand off, or hostage taking, the sniper is often the only solution to a bad situation.

As lightweight aluminum is cut and tooled, it will become the frame of a personal flying machine. Used by military operatives, drug enforcement agents, and first responders – it gets you in and out fast, whether you are carrying a camera or a gun.

What starts off as a seven-pound bar of solid steel will soon deliver a bullet with deadly accuracy when it becomes the barrel of a Colt C7 assault rifle, and when plastic and bulletproof fabric are molded and stitched together,they'll make a suit of armour made for the most dangerous job in the world.

Travel across the continent, exploring the opulent villas, luxurious palaces, remote command centers, underground tunnels, and secret bunkers of Europe's most tyrannical dictators.

Casa Poporlui is the magnum opus of Romania's most bloodthirsty dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu, and hides secrets of an extensive underground bunker system.

Having stolen billions from the populace, Ukrainian dictator Viktor Yanukovych hides his treasure trove in a mind-bending corruption scheme that leads to Mezhyhirya, a 150-acre estate, with secret underground tunnels.

The evolution of mankind's desire to fly higher, move faster, and kill better all from within the cockpit.

From the most deadly submarines ever seen to the infamous destroyers of the Second World War, this episode is the story of what it takes to rule the waves.