First Contact: An Alien Encounter
9pm, BBC Two
If the Voyager 1 probe detected a signal from outer space that suggested extraterrestrial life, how would the world react? That is the intriguing premise of this strikingly designed “what if?” documentary that, appropriately enough, wants the best of both worlds. It gives lifelong scientists and researchers ample time to calmly outline the protocols of first contact while also having a lot of fun imagining the frenzied global news cycle and inevitable avalanche of smart/dumb alien memes. Graeme Virtue
Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker
8pm, Channel 4
With the final just a week away, the four remaining carpenters are really starting to feel the pressure. Their main task is to design and craft an elegant work desk, but it’s the 90-minute skills challenge – knocking up a vase for dried flowers from offcuts – that proves almost too much for one stressed challenger. GV
This England
9pm, Sky Atlantic
In the series finale, Boris Johnson prepares for his return to No 10 after his hospitalisation. Plans are made to carry out 100,000 Covid tests a day and things look in good shape until Pippa Crerar, the Daily Mirror’s then political editor, investigates reports that Dominic Cummings was sighted in Durham during lockdown. Sammy Gescoyler
Hostages
9pm, Sky Documentaries
This four-part series goes deep into the 1979 storming of the US embassy in Tehran, the hostage situation that dragged on for more than a year and the geopolitical consequences. Episode one covers the Iranian revolution and the country’s deteriorating relationship with the US. Jack Seale
Dating Death
9pm, Sky Crime
Rodney Alcala gained notoriety for appearing on a TV dating show in the midst of his series of murders. Linked to 130 deaths, the serial killer has been described as a “killing machine” and likened to Ted Bundy. Undeniably disturbing, this documentary will be a true-crime fix for many. SG
Unapologetic
11.05pm, Channel 4
Why are sugar daddies more widely accepted than cougars? Yinka Bokinni and Zeze Millz prepare to find out, as yet more no-holds-barred conversations ensue. Also tonight, they are joined by Birmingham City footballer Troy Deeney and Krept from hip-hop duo Krept and Konan, who call for Black history to be taught in all Britain’s schools. Danielle De Wolfe
Live sport
Champions League football: Chelsea v Dinamo Zagreb 7pm, BT Sport 2
Manchester City v Sevilla is on BT Sport 3.
