Insomniac, aristocrat, gambler, philanthropist—James Smithson also was an indefatigably curious chemist who deserves more credit for his contributions to science. Continue reading The Science of James Smithson
An online exhibition shows how Native artists are creating messages of strength, resilience and hope during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading Using tribal traditions to interpret a modern necessity
Hong Kong churned out hundreds of kung fu movies during the genre’s heyday. But beyond the campy dialogue is an artistry that dates back thousands of years. Continue reading Everybody was Kung Fu fighting
Forget about worrying if rain will spoil your picnic. Soon you can worry about whether it’s acid rain—or if the formaldehyde levels are too high to go for a run. Continue reading TEMPO steps up the pace of air pollution monitoring
Brett Gonzalez and his colleagues dive deep into lightless caves to find some of the world’s rarest invertebrates—including some unknown to science. Continue reading Searching for Godzilla
In the midst of an alarming plummet in migratory bird populations, how do we keep common songbirds common? Continue reading The silence of the birds: How can we make sure common songbirds stay common?
Paul Tintle and his crew are among those making sure our buildings will be ready when we are ready to return. Continue reading Our Smithsonian: Keeping the lights on
Fortunately, someone has. Botanists are making regular trips to the greenhouses full of specimen plants to make sure that (the lack of) April showers doesn’t result in a dearth of May flowers. Continue reading Our Smithsonian: Won’t someone think of the philodendrons?
A few hundred years ago, before the world turned upside down, the Torch interviewed horticulturist Janet Draper. We were most concerned then about the dangers of a late frost on early-blooming tree and flowers, but we have since learned that nature takes each day as it comes—as should we. Continue reading Our Smithsonian: Janet Draper
Telework is an important part of a sustainable workplace, reducing carbon emissions from vehicles and—as anyone who commutes via I95 or I270 can tell you—improving employee morale. Continue reading How much work would a teleworker work if a worker could work via telework?
The Smithsonian's 12th collaboration with USA Today honors American veterans. Continue reading America’s Veterans: Honor, Service, and Sacrifice
Secretary Bunch announces a generous gift from Lily Endowment to fund the Smithsonian's celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary in 2026. Continue reading A new $40 million grant will fund America’s 250th programming and events
After three decades answering visitors' questions, is there anything she doesn't know about the Smithsonian? Continue reading Bridget Balog celebrates 30 years with the Smithsonian
Meet the newest member of the OVS staff: An enthusiastic historian and writer with a touch of Army discipline. Continue reading Introducing Troy Huber
The Office of Visitor Services is excited to announce that we are recruiting for a new season of volunteer Smithsonian Ambassadors! Continue reading Ambassadors needed to meet visitors where they are
