ITV has ordered It's Not Rocket Science, a new TV format described as a "fast-paced entertainment show that celebrates gadgets, technology, innovation and the under-appreciated scientific world around us".

The series will be fronted by comedy actor Ben Miller, stand-up comedian Romesh Ranganathan and 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown regular Rachel Riley.

This news follows on from a non-broadcast pilot that was recorded last year under the title Out Of This World.

Producers confirm: "Every show, our presenting trio of Romesh Ranganathan, Rachel Riley and Ben Miller will bring science to the masses using humorous experiments, large-scale stunts and engaging emotional stories.

"Could your daily sugar intake really fire a rocket over 1,000m? Can cutting-edge robotic exoskeletons enable paralysed children to walk? Is your household hoover powerful enough to lift up a person? No matter the topic, this is a fast-paced and accessible show with broad appeal that charms the audience into realising that the latest Science and Tech innovations are woven into their everyday lives."

They conclude: "This show will not only entertain and thrill, but also inform you."

Recording dates have now been set at Elstree Studios, with the first recordings on the 21st, 23rd and 26th January. To apply to be in the audience visit Applause Store

All three of the hosts, as well as presenting comedy shows, have academic backgrounds.

Prior to turning to writing and acting, Ben Miller went to Cambridge University to study for a PhD in solid state physics; Rachel Riley has a Masters Degree in Mathematics from Oxford; and Ranganathan taught maths at a secondary school in Crawley before quitting to become a stand-up comedian.