Piero Angela, Italian Science Communicator, Dies at 93

Piero Angela, the pioneering Italian science communicator and creator of the beloved television program "Quark" (later "SuperQuark"), has died at the age of 93. Angela began his career in journalism with the Giornale Radio Rai in 1952, later serving as a correspondent for the Telegiornale from Paris and Brussels. He went on to host the first edition of the TG delle 13.30 and became the first anchor of TG2 in 1976. After producing documentaries on the cosmos, including "Il futuro nello spazio," he recognized the need for broader scientific education in Italy and launched "Quark" in the 1980s, a program that became a cultural phenomenon and intellectual staple against the mediocrity of commercial television. Angela's approach to education, which he described as "edurre" (to lead out), inspired generations to pursue knowledge and curiosity. His passing has prompted reflections on the importance of cultural and scientific communication in Italy, with many hoping that politicians will heed his advice on education. In his own words, "I did my part, now it's up to you to help this difficult country." The article, written by Valentina Ferrario, was published on Artspecialday on August 13, 2026.