Creator-led company Underknown has launched a new FAST channel based on magazine Popular Science, which will be available worldwide on platforms including Vizio WatchFree+, Sling Freestream, FUBO, Plex, Local Now and more.
Since 1872, Popular Science has been one of America’s most trusted science publications, explaining everything from the marvels of deep space to the complex choreography of a hummingbird in flight. The new channel will offer a wide lineup of content, right from its launch, most notably live coverage of every significant rocket launch in the US, including those from NASA, Space X, Blue Origin and others.
In addition, Popular Science will broadcast NASA Spaceflight’s live weekly series, Starbase Update and This Week in Spaceflight, providing audiences with an up-close view of space exploration. The channel will also showcase programming from science-focused creators on YouTube. These partnerships include more than 50 million followers across brands like Hacksmith, Complexly, and Underknown’s own creations.
“We’re thrilled to bring the storied Popular Science magazine to its own TV channel, extending its legacy of reliable storytelling and innovation,” Underknown co-founder and CEO Steve Hulford said. “By integrating top science brands from YouTube, TV, and film, we’re creating a place where storytelling meets discovery. With a wealth of partnerships, including with NASA Spaceflight, Hacksmith, and Complexly, we’re ensuring that Popular Science is not just a channel, but a destination for curious fans.”
Toronto-based Underknown has established itself as one of the leading producers of factual content, with its portfolio of brands including web-based channels such as What If, How to Survive, Animalogic, and Aperture. To date it has amassed an audience of more than 75 million followers worldwide on its online channels.
The Popular Science channel is licensed under Recurrent Ventures Inc., a leading digital media company specialising in high-quality content that educates, entertains, and informs. FAST channel management company acTVe is overseeing the launch of Popular Science across all platforms. AcTVe CEO Geoff Clark said: “Underknown’s exceptional content and taste, combined with Popular Science’s renowned brand, created the perfect formula for a premium streaming network.”
Popular Science editor in chief Annie Colbert said. “For more than 150 years, Popular Science magazine has always strived to demystify the world around and ahead of us to make science accessible to everyone. By partnering with Underknown to bring Popular Science to TV screens everywhere, we have an incredible opportunity to present new and exciting content and engage with audiences in a new way. I’m confident that combining the digital TV expertise of Underknown with our brand’s legacy will keep viewers plugged into the incredible science around them every day.”
AcTVe owns, operates and manages broadcast-level FAST Channels for its clients. Current acTVe channels include Documentary+, SURFER, OZ TV, NitroCircus TV, Team Liquid, Almost Friday, Popular Science, Free Live Sports and more.
