Long before Bill Nye the Science Guy and Neil De Grasse Tyson, the original Mr. Wizard used television to awaken generations of kids to the wonders of science. Continue reading The original Mr. Wizard used science, not magic, to work everyday wonders
Whale graveyards–and the mass whale strandings that lead to them–have puzzled people since ancient times. A team of Smithsonian scientists have finally solved the mystery of how and why these whales die. Continue reading The Mysterious Case of Cetacean Expiration
If you’re anxiously waiting on holiday packages to make it on time via snail mail, the idea of instant delivery from Amazon robot drone is pretty appealing. But how realistic is it? After all, we’re still waiting for the jet pack we were promised. Continue reading Amazon’s door-to-door delivery drones–Doable?
A tiny, blood-engorged mosquito has extended the fossil record millions of years. But don’t get your hopes up for a real-life “Jurassic Park.” Continue reading The Amazing Trace: Blood molecules survive for millions of years
Can parasites be the key to controlling the lionfish? Biologist Andrew Sellers counts flatworms and flukes so you don’t have to. Continue reading Invasive, voracious and venomous–is the lionfish becoming the king of the Atlantic?
Quick, name a pioneering female scientist…other than Marie Curie. Thought so. Here’s a chance to broaden your education. Continue reading Six pioneering women scientists you’ve never heard of
Today’s dramatic meteorite strike in Russia raises a lot of questions. We have the answers! Join us for our first live Reddit AMA! Continue reading Keep watching the skies! (But don’t forget to duck)
Careful research finally describes this “pretty little thing” as a distinct species. Continue reading Tiny Peruvian opossum comes from a great big family
Squid porn! The first video ever to capture the mating behavior of a deep-sea squid species. Continue reading NSFW: 50 Shades of…Squid
Mosquitoes prefer robins–the cheeseburgers and fries of their world. But if they can’t get tasty birds, skeeters are happy to snack on us. Continue reading As robins disperse, West Nile virus spikes in humans
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
