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*WEDNESDAY

The New Explorers With Bill Kurtis (PBS, 8-9 p.m.): At McDonnell Douglas Aerospace in St. Louis, an engineering team prepares for the first test flight of a new jet fighter. This program joins the engineers in exploring advances in aerial security.

The 31st Annual Academy of Country Music Awards (NBC, 8-11 p.m. EDT): Brooks & Dunn and Faith Hill host country's high honors from the Universal Amphitheatre in Hollywood, Calif. Among the star-studded music numbers will be the new ensemble charity single "Hope," performed by Little Texas, Marty Stuart, Travis Tritt, Trisha Yearwood, and others.

Picket Fences (CBS, 9-11 p.m.): Over its four-year run, this quirky drama has elicited praise and controversy, but sagging ratings have brought its end. Though several episodes remain unaired and unscheduled, these back-to-back ones have been declared the series finale.

*THURSDAY

Martin (FOX, 8:30-9 p.m.): Not too fond of visiting your local department of motor vehicles? This comedy may offer some chuckles on the subject when Martin (Martin Lawrence), trying to renew his driver's license, encounters a frightful DMV official, played by Sherman Hemsley ("The Jeffersons").

*FRIDAY

Family Matters (ABC, 8-8:30 p.m.): Romance is in the air on ABC's Friday comedies. First, on "Family Matters," nerdy Steve (Jaleel White) has his dream come true when long-sought-after Laura (Kellie Shanygne Williams) is his date for the senior prom. Then, on Hangin' With Mr. Cooper (ABC 9:30-10 p.m.), Vanessa (Holly Robinson Peete) has a new beau, much to Mark's (Mark Curry) dismay. When she finally forces Mark to explain why he's sabotaging her dates, it opens up a new chapter in their friendship.

Please check local listings for these programs.