Theme music composer Mike Vickers Country of origin Poland No. of episodes approx. 490 First episode date 8 September 1977 Language Polish Genre Popular science | Opening theme Visitation Original language(s) Polish Running time under 30 min. Final episode date 1989 Number of episodes 490 | |
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Presented by Andrzej Kurek, Zdzisław Kamiński Similar Sonda 2, Astronarium, Koło Fortuny, Panorama, Wiadomości | ||
Sonda was a Polish television popular science series broadcast between 1977 and 1989. It was presented by economist Zdzisław Kamiński and physicist Andrzej Kurek. During the period of 12 years of broadcasting, the programme was the most popular and appreciated science TV show in Poland, becoming cult viewing for a generation. The program ended with the death of its hosts in a car accident on September 29, 1989.
The programme owes its popularity to its unique formula: In each episode, one particular problem from the field of science or technology was addressed. The show had the form of a “never-ending” discussion between a sceptic and an enthusiast (Kamiński and Kurek), who carried out hands-on demonstrations and experiments to illustrate their arguments. The discussion contained elements of humour and performance, the hosts were often dressed up in costumes. The show was interspersed with documentary footage presenting a broader view of the issues discussed.
Production
A total of 529 episodes were broadcast. Most of the broadcast tapes have been erased (reused for newer episodes).
The programme is notable for its use of music, many of them by electronic music artists like Vangelis, Jean-Michel Jarre or by a range of artists associated with the Sonoton Production Music Library label. The theme song was a slightly shortened version of an instrumental piece called "Visitation", composed and recorded in 1971 by Manfred Mann's Mike Vickers.
Opening / end titles were prepared by Kurek using his ZX Spectrum.