In tough economic times, our exploratory science programs -- from space probes to the LHC -- are first to suffer budget cuts. Brian Cox explains how curiosity-driven science pays for itself, powering innovation and a profound appreciation of our existence.

Brian Cox: Why we need the explorers

Why we need the explorers

Science's serendipitous nature, from Alexander Fleming's penicillin discovery to quantum theory, underscores innovation's unpredictability.

Just 0.6% of GDP fuels global curiosity-driven science, a small investment that powers substantial economic and intellectual returns.

Curiosity-driven science, costing just 0.6% of GDP, powers profound innovations that shape and sustain our modern world.