Alien Empire: Hardware
(1996)
The first of six episodes in the Alien Empire series, Hardware explores the intricate micro-architecture of insects. Examining the 'design' of some of the billions of bugs that share our planet, this half hour programme allows a unique glimpse into insect engineering, looking at their external skeleton, wings, sensors and learning capabilities.
Incredible photography, graphics and time-lapse techniques investigate how these agile creatures become airborne, seemingly defying the conventional laws of flight. From the beautiful blues, greens and reds of jewel beetles to close-up footage of a moon moth emerging from its cocoon, this WNET/BBC co-production provides a fascinating insight into the sophisticated miniature world of insects.
