Broadcast in February and March 1975, The Sontaran Experiment offers a sharp change in pace and scale after the epic space station drama of The Ark in Space. As the 77th adventure in the series, this two-part story takes the Doctor, Sarah Jane Smith, and Harry Sullivan to the wilderness of a desolate Earth in the distant future. Here, the Doctor faces one of the galaxy’s most ruthless foes in a tightly crafted tale of survival and deception.
One of the many strengths of season 12 is that all adventures continue directly one after the other, tracing one single problematic voyage of the TARDIS crew, so this story picks up where The Ark in Space left off, with the Doctor and his companions using the transmat system aboard Nerva Beacon to teleport down to Earth. Once a bustling cradle of humanity, Earth is now a barren and abandoned world. However, the apparent desolation conceals a sinister presence: a lone Sontaran warrior, Field Major Styre, conducting brutal experiments on human subjects in preparation for an invasion. The Doctor must outwit Styre, rescue the stranded humans, and uncover the Sontaran’s ultimate plan.
Tom Baker’s Fourth Doctor is in top form here, bringing his trademark blend of intelligence, humour, and moral resolve to the forefront. Baker’s performance is particularly compelling during his confrontations with Styre, where the Doctor’s disdain for cruelty and his razor-sharp wit shine through. Despite the brevity of the story, Baker leaves a lasting impression, solidifying his Doctor’s role as a protector of the oppressed and a fierce adversary to injustice.
Elisabeth Sladen’s Sarah Jane Smith continues to be a standout companion. Her bravery and resourcefulness are put to the test as she navigates the dangers of Earth’s wilderness and Styre’s sadistic experiments. Sladen’s ability to convey both vulnerability and determination adds emotional depth to the story. Sarah’s interactions with the Doctor and Harry highlight her integral role in their dynamic, and her empathy for the human captives underscores her strength as a character.
Ian Marter’s Harry Sullivan is once again a dependable and endearing presence. His practicality and good-natured humour provide a counterbalance to the tension of the narrative. Marter’s chemistry with both Baker and Sladen creates a trio that feels cohesive and engaging, even in the face of life-threatening danger.
Kevin Lindsay’s portrayal of Styre is chilling, capturing the Sontaran’s ruthless pragmatism and militaristic ethos. Styre’s experiments, designed to test human endurance and psychological resilience, are a stark reminder of the Sontarans’ disregard for anything beyond their war-driven agenda. Lindsay’s performance conveys both the physical menace and the cold, calculating nature of his character, making Styre a memorable antagonist despite the story’s brevity.
The location filming on Dartmoor lends the story a raw and atmospheric quality. The rugged landscapes and sparse vegetation create a sense of isolation and desolation that complements the narrative’s themes of survival and resilience. The practical effects, including Styre’s distinctive Sontaran armour and the transmat technology, are well-realized for the era and enhance the story’s visual appeal.
From a thematic perspective, The Sontaran Experiment explores the ethical implications of experimentation and the resilience of the human spirit. The Sontarans’ cold, scientific approach to warfare is juxtaposed against the Doctor’s empathy and ingenuity, highlighting the moral gulf between the two. The story’s critique of dehumanization and its emphasis on collective resistance resonate strongly, even when viewed through a modern lens.
Rewatching The Sontaran Experiment in 2025, I was struck by its efficiency and impact. Despite its short runtime, the story delivers high stakes, memorable character moments, and a clear thematic message. The pacing is brisk but not rushed, allowing for a satisfying progression from mystery to resolution. The Doctor’s victory over Styre, achieved through intellect and strategy rather than brute force, reinforces the show’s enduring ethos of using brains over brawn.
This story also serves as a bridge between the grand arcs of The Ark in Space and Genesis of the Daleks, offering a brief but gripping interlude that expands the series’ mythology. The return of the Sontarans, first introduced in The Time Warrior, adds continuity and depth to their portrayal as one of the Doctor’s most formidable adversaries.
The Sontaran Experiment may be short, but it’s a testament to Doctor Who’s ability to tell compelling stories within any format. Its blend of tension, humour, and moral complexity ensures it remains a standout entry in the series’ history. As the Doctor and his companions prepare to face their next challenge, this adventure serves as a reminder of the show’s enduring ability to entertain and inspire.
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