As summer draws to a close, one of Smithsonian Gardens’ newest staff members, Phil Evich, shares his thoughts and observations from time he spent rotating through each of the Smithsonian gardens and landscapes earlier this season. This is Part 1 of Phil’s Annual Adventure. Continue reading An Annual Adventure at Smithsonian Gardens
One year ago, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo welcomed Xiao Qi Ji—a precious giant panda born in the midst of a global pandemic. Fans who follow the beloved bear’s #PandaStory from the beginning reveled in watching him grow into the playful and curious cub he is today. As the giant panda team prepares to celebrate Xiao Qi Ji’s first birthday Aug. 21, take a look back at his top 12 milestones that left panda fans around the world in awe and ‘aww.’ Continue reading Happy First Birthday, Xiao Qi Ji!
Yes, it still involves bivalves and bowels, but there’s a lot more to the story. Continue reading The true story behind how pearls are made
People from around the world connect with the Smithsonian in different ways every single day, and those experiences mean something unique and personal to everyone. What’s your favorite Smithsonian memory? Continue reading What’s your favorite Smithsonian memory?
The Amazon founder’s gift—the largest since the Institution was created in 1846—will support the Air and Space Museum renovation and a new education center. Continue reading Jeff Bezos Gifts Historic $200 Million to the Smithsonian
A new exhibition merges art and science to ask, “What is ‘natural’ in a world dominated by humans?” Continue reading “Unsettled Nature: Artists Reflect on the Age of Humans”
A new exhibition merges art and science to ask, “What is ‘natural’ in a world dominated by humans?” Continue reading “Unsettled Nature: Artists Reflect on the Age of Humans”
One of the oldest communication technologies is proving indispensable as a worldwide outreach tool. Continue reading Clear all airwaves! Amateur radio is surging at the Smithsonian
If the first question every computer tech gets is, “Why isn’t my computer working?” (Is it plugged in?), the second is, “Why is my computer acting so weird?” (Have you updated it? Ever?) The Office of the Chief Information Officer has some simple tips to keep the ghost out of the machine. Continue reading How to keep your SI computer updated (Hint: Reboot!)
Once reserved for military heroes, the Congressional Gold Medal has been awarded to poets and baseball players, police officers and civil rights activists, in recognition that there is more than one way to be an American hero. Continue reading Recognizing the best America has to offer
The President's budget for fiscal year 2026, released May 30, includes deep cuts to Smithsonian federal funding. Secretary Bunch explains the federal appropriations process and reminds us of the long road between initial requests and final budget. Continue reading FY 2026 Appropriations Process
A chance encounter and a new exhibition demonstrate the power of photography to “Secure the shadow, ere the substance fade.” Continue reading From Shadow to Substance
Salute your colleagues June 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the American History Museum's Warner Brothers Theater. Continue reading Introducing this year’s Unsung Heroes
Kara Blond brings 25 years of experience to her new role, including previous stints at the Smithsonian. Continue reading Director named for SITES | Affiliations
