An ambitious programming slate of more than 60 programs from some of the industry’s top non-fiction production companies will be the foundation of the Smithsonian Networks when it makes its Video On Demand service available to operators later this spring.

The Smithsonian Networks’ programs will include a co-production arrangement with the British Broadcasting Corporation for their flagship history series "Timewatch," which is the longest running history series on the BBC.

"It’s a very exciting time for Smithsonian Networks," said David Royle, executive vice president for programming and production. "I think filmmakers recognize that we offer a unique opportunity to make quality, entertaining shows that are inspired by the Smithsonian and its broad interests. Their enthusiasm is infectious and we’re delighted that so many have embraced the new opportunity the network offers as partners in production and distribution. The chance to take the Smithsonian’s collections and interests beyond the confines of Washington to a wider American public is a wonderful challenge."

Broadcast in high definition, the Smithsonian Network’s programming will include documentaries, events and short-subject explorations of the major scientific, cultural and historical events of the day. The projects will consist of original and acquired films, covering topics that reflect the broad scope of the Smithsonian in categories titled Air and Space, Cool Collections, History and Mystery, More Smithsonian, Natural Wonders, Pop Culture and Smithsonian Kids.

The 2007 programming slate includes the following:

Stories from the Vaults

This series of 30-minute shows is be hosted by Tom Cavanagh, who goes behind the scenes and into the vaults of the Smithsonian’s museums to reveal some of the amazing artifacts that visitors don’t always get to see, and in doing so, tells extraordinary stories about American culture and heritage. (Produced for Smithsonian Networks by Caragol Wells Productions)

The Hunt for the Double Eagle

The story of the 1933 solid gold Double Eagle is a mystery story about the intrigue and greed stirred by the world’s most valuable coin. Two examples of this coin, which last sold for $7 million, exist in the Smithsonian’s coin collection. Likened to the Mona Lisa and the Holy Grail, as both beautiful and unattainable, the coin has been on the United States Secret Service’s Most Wanted list for more than 70 years. The show retraces the Secret Service investigation of the 1933 Double Eagle through nearly three-quarters of a century of American history. It’s a dramatic story that crosses continents and includes corruption at the U.S. Mint, the decadence of King Farouk of Egypt and a sting at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York. (Produced for Smithsonian Networks by Fulcrum TV; 52 minutes)

American Treasures

"American Treasures" is inspired by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History’s special exhibit of 150 of the most unique objects in the Smithsonian’s collection that help define the last 200 years of American culture. The program tells the stories behind these objects and how they have changed lives and shaped American culture. (Produced for Smithsonian Networks by Big Fish Entertainment; 50 minutes)

Nature Tech

Amazing photography brings to life ways in which the natural world inspires the inventors of tomorrow’s next break-through. Today’s scientists and engineers are studying nature to sleuth out the secrets of superior design—the hydrodynamics of penguins can be applied to car design to achieve unparalleled fuel efficiency, and the secret to why flowers are never dirty may yield lessons for creating non-stick substances. Cutting edge science also helps us understand how to achieve high speeds, construct durable structures and save energy. (A three-part series from ORF, Austrian Broadcasting; 52 minutes each)

Cutting Loose

This winner of the 1996 Filmmakers Trophy for Best Documentary at Sundance has never been seen before on American TV. "Cutting Loose" chronicles an event that almost perished under the wrath of Hurricane Katrina—the vibrant life of Mardi Gras. Steeped in tradition, this New Orleans bacchanalia is a 24-hour party like no other in America. This documentary starts a month before the last feast day before Lent, and follows revelers from all walks of life. It is a testament to the New Orleans that once was “the city that care forgot.” (From Dune Productions and Andrew Young and Susan Todd; 90 minutes)

Critter Quest

Naturalist Peter Schreimer introduces children ages 5 to 12 to the wonderful, icky world of creepies and crawlies that lurk just beyond their doorsteps. This program is full of projects that children can learn to do and teaches an appreciation of nature. It will have an important educational outreach component with links to Smithsonian initiatives. (Produced for Smithsonian Networks by Tiger/Tigress Productions; 3 shows, 30 minutes each)

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