The Infinite Monkey Cage

In this special edition Brian and Robin are joined by British astronauts Helen Sharman and Tim Peake to talk about the country's history and future in space.

British astronauts Tim Peake and Helen Sharman will appear in a special episode of award-winning comedy science series The Infinite Monkey Cage when it returns to Radio 4 and BBC Sounds for its landmark 20th run on 16 September.

A decade since the programme first launched, Professor Brian Cox and Robin Ince will be reunited once more for five new episodes of witty, irreverent discussion about the world of science. As usual, the hosts will be joined by a wide range of guests on each programme, from revered academics and popular comedians, to science pioneers like Tim and Helen.

Tim, the European Space Agency's first British astronaut, and Helen, who was the first ever Briton to journey into space in 1991, will appear in a special episode on 14 October, which is aptly set to explore the UK's history, and future, in space.

Ahead of his debut on the Monkey Cage panel, Tim says: "I've been a huge Infinite Monkey Cage fan since its inception and have particularly enjoyed the many fascinating space travel debates on the show over the last 10 years.

"It's a thrill to finally be joining the inimitable duo that is Brian Cox and Robin Ince to talk about what the future holds for British space exploration - and I'm of course looking forward to sharing a few laughs with them and the other guests too!"