Niall asks why there is a fascination with lifeless planets while life on Earth is so gravely imperiled - and gains an insight into miracles in the process.

Earthrise photograph.

Curiosity Rover images.

Jostein Gaarder’s Maya.

Francis Fukuyama’s End of History.

Elon Musk’s wish to settle Mars.

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Written, presented and produced by Niall Benvie, Food and Photography Retreats Ltd.

Natural sounds recorded in the field by Niall Benvie

Music provided by Epidemic Sound.