D-day’s heroes didn’t all wield rifles. On the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings, wetland scientist Christian Dunn explores the fascinating, yet largely unknown story of the covert mission that secured the beaches, not with bullets but with soil samples. Discover how the science of mud became an allied secret weapon on the shores of Normandy.

Is space exploration a distraction from Earth’s problems? A growing movement says that it is, with concerns about billionaires, space junk and a disconnect from our own planet. But is there a way to explore space responsibly, while still tackling climate change and respecting indigenous cultures?

Meanwhile, back on Earth, a selection of archaeological enigmas continue to puzzle historians. From intricately carved Neolithic stone balls to miniature Roman artefacts of unknown purpose, these objects offer tantalising glimpses into a bygone era.

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