Tony Robinson investigates the history of natural disasters, from the Earth’s formation up until the present day, and explores the notion that we, ourselves are the product of such catastrophes. Four and half billion years ago, a planet thought to be around the size of Mars smashed into our young Earth with such force that this extreme event nearly obliterated the planet entirely.

This event has since revealed itself however, as a defining moment in Earth’s history. As our molten planet reeled from the impact, the Moon was formed. This orbiting body subsequently triggered an extraordinary series of events, enabling our world to develop life.