PKP Intercity, in collaboration with the Nauka. To Lubię Foundation, has launched an extraordinary initiative to promote Polish science. Starting June 11, 2024, an EU160 Griffin locomotive adorned with the image of Jan Czochralski, an outstanding Polish chemist and metallurgist, has been traveling on Polish railways. The ceremonial unveiling of the locomotive took place at Katowice Central Station, from where it embarked on its first journey. This is part of the “Trail of Superhero Academy” project, aimed at popularizing the achievements of Polish scientists.
Jan Czochralski – Winner of the Plebiscite
As part of the “Trail of Superhero Academy” project, PKP Intercity and the Nauka. To Lubię Foundation organized a nationwide plebiscite in which Poles chose the scientist whose image would adorn the locomotive. Among the candidates were Maria Skłodowska-Curie and Ignacy Łukasiewicz, but Jan Czochralski received the most votes. His groundbreaking discoveries, such as a durable metal alloy used in the railway industry, revolutionized many fields, including rail transport. Now, his image will travel across Poland on a PKP Intercity locomotive.
Locomotive Traveling Across Poland
Since June 11, the EU160 Griffin locomotive, featuring a unique graphic design, has begun operating across the country. For the next six months, it will be visible in numerous cities, including Poznań, Lublin, Białystok, and Świnoujście. PKP Intercity and the Nauka. To Lubię Foundation invite everyone to follow the locomotive’s routes and visit stations to see this unique vehicle in person.
“We are delighted to honor Jan Czochralski by featuring his image on our locomotive. It’s not only a tribute to his achievements but also a way to promote Polish science nationwide. We encourage everyone to follow the ‘Trail of Superhero Academy’ and participate in events at the stations,” said Adam Wawrzyniak, a member of the PKP Intercity board.
“Trail of Superhero Academy” – Science on the Move
The “Trail of Superhero Academy” project is more than just a locomotive. As part of the initiative, a map with suggested train trips to places connected to Polish science will be created, along with an interactive version. Additionally, the Nauka. To Lubię Foundation will produce educational films about Polish railways, which will be released in the summer on the foundation’s channels. In September, two meetings with Dr. Tomasz Rożek are planned at railway stations, where lectures promoting science will take place.
“Polish scientists like Jan Czochralski are true superheroes whose discoveries have changed the world. Their stories deserve attention, and our project is a great opportunity to learn about them. We encourage everyone to travel across Poland in the footsteps of science,” says Tomasz Rożek, president of the Nauka. To Lubię Foundation.
Travel and Discover Polish Science
The “Trail of Superhero Academy” is a perfect opportunity to combine a passion for travel with discovering the achievements of Polish scientists. The project is aimed at families with children as well as all science enthusiasts. Follow the locomotive’s routes, watch educational films, and participate in events at stations – discover the superpowers of Polish science!
