Should scientific research be conducted to advance mankind’s knowledge regardless of whether it has a particular application or should it aim to solve real-world problems? This debate isn’t new. Continue reading A Smithsonian dilemma
Q?rius will combine labs, collections, creative studios and hangout spots in a new state-of-the-art learning space for teens. Continue reading R U Q?rius? Here’s the 411.
The new National Museum of African American History and Culture literally will be built around two iconic objects from the Jim Crow-era South. Continue reading Building on (and around) history
Where a new way of thinking results in a change: Pherabe Kolb, Project Director of the Smithsonian Innovation Space at the Arts and Industries Building, explains how a venerable architectural treasure is being restored as a place to celebrate some very 21st-century ideas. UPDATED Jan. 28, 2014.
Continue reading Can an old building learn new tricks? The Smithsonian Innovation Space at the Arts and Industries Building
As the Smithsonian continues to digitize our vast resources, we have unveiled an exciting new way to really get up close and personal with the objects in our premier X3D collection. Continue reading How do you bring 137 million objects to life?
X-files, X-men, X-factor–where would they be without the invention of the X-ray? Well, they actually have nothing to do with X-rays, but it’s hard to write these teases. Grab your X-ray specs and let’s celebrate all things X-ray today! Continue reading November 8 is X-ray Day
A new Coen Brothers movie and a Smithsonian Folkways box set shed new light on an artist’s storied career–thanks to archivist Jeff Place.. Continue reading Dave Van Ronk: The Mayor of MacDougal Street
Lonnie G. Bunch, the director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, reflects on why “12 Years a Slave” is such a powerful film. Continue reading This peculiar institution
We had a bit of a hairy dilemma picking our favorite. You’ll need to scroll all the way down to find the editor’s choice. (As an aside, are these not the saddest Bad Santas ever?) Continue reading We mustache you a question: Who has your favorite historic facial hair?
A recently discovered Earth-like planet is a complete mystery that shouldn’t even exist. It doesn’t look as if it will for long. Continue reading Mystery world baffles astronomers
Vote now for the Autumn 2025 Windows Lock Screen. Voting ends Sunday, September 21st! Continue reading Vote now for the Autumn 2025 Windows Lock Screen
(Ed. note: We should note that it's never wise to stand behind a cow, even a buttery one. Cow pies never win blue ribbons.) Continue reading Behind the Butter Cow: A Look at the Renwick’s new State Fair exhibition
More than $2.5 million in grants has been awarded to fund projects ranging from exposing little kids to nature, the link between movement and emotional wellbeing and building a robotic telescope. Continue reading 2025 Together we Thrive
Melanie Adams will serve as interim director beginning August 26. Continue reading Director of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum is stepping down
