smithsonian national museum of natural history

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: A Brief History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the most visited museums in the world, with over 7 million visitors each year. It was founded in 1910 and is located on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution, which was established by an Act of Congress in 1846 and named after its founder, James Smithson.

The idea for a national museum of natural history dates back to the early 19th century when Thomas Jefferson proposed that a “cabinet of curiosities” be created to house specimens collected from around the world. However, it wasn’t until the late 1800s that serious efforts were made to establish such a museum.

In 1901, President William McKinley signed legislation authorizing the creation of a national museum of natural history as part of the Smithsonian Institution. The museum officially opened its doors on March 17, 1910, with a collection of over 4 million specimens.

The Early Years

The first director of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History was Richard Rathbun, who oversaw its construction and development from 1905 until his death in 1918. During his tenure, Rathbun worked tirelessly to build up the museum’s collections and establish it as a world-class institution.

One of Rathbun’s most significant accomplishments was his role in acquiring the famous Hope Diamond for the museum’s collection. In 1909, he convinced wealthy socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean to donate the diamond to the Smithsonian, where it has been on display ever since.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has undergone several major renovations and expansions. In 2003, a new wing was added to house an exhibit on human origins, and in 2010, the museum celebrated its centennial with a series of special events and exhibits.

Today, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular museums in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its collections include over 145 million specimens and artifacts, ranging from dinosaur fossils to rare gems and minerals. The museum’s mission is to promote understanding and appreciation of the natural world through research, education, and exhibition.

The Mission of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The mission of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and learning about the natural world through its collections, exhibitions, research programs, and educational outreach. The museum aims to foster a deeper understanding of our planet’s biodiversity and geodiversity while promoting conservation efforts to protect these resources for future generations.

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s mission statement emphasizes that it seeks to engage visitors in an interactive experience that encourages them to explore their own connections to nature. Through its exhibits and programs, the museum hopes to inspire people to become stewards of the environment by promoting conservation efforts.

Research Programs

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is home to several research programs that focus on different aspects of natural history. These programs include:

• The Department of Anthropology
• The Department of Botany
• The Department of Entomology
• The Department of Invertebrate Zoology
• The Department of Mineral Sciences
• The Department of Paleobiology
• The Department of Vertebrate Zoology

Each department conducts research on specific areas within their field and contributes new knowledge to our understanding of the natural world. This research helps inform exhibits at the museum as well as contribute to scientific knowledge more broadly.

Educational Outreach

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History offers a variety of educational programs and resources for learners of all ages. These include:

• Guided tours of the museum’s exhibits
• Hands-on workshops and classes
• Online resources for educators and students
• Internship and fellowship opportunities for aspiring scientists and researchers
• Public lectures and events featuring experts in various fields of natural history

Through these programs, the museum aims to inspire curiosity about the natural world and promote a deeper understanding of its complexities.

The Architecture of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is housed in a massive neoclassical building on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The building was designed by architect James Renwick Jr., who also designed several other notable buildings in Washington D.C., including St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Construction on the building began in 1904, and it was completed in 1910 at a cost of $3.5 million. The building’s exterior features intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various animals, plants, and other elements from nature.

The interior of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is just as impressive as its exterior. The central rotunda is topped with a stunning stained-glass dome that lets in natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the building. The rotunda is surrounded by exhibits on mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, plants, rocks, minerals, fossils, human origins, and more.

In recent years, the museum has undergone several renovations and expansions to modernize its facilities and make them more accessible to visitors with disabilities. These renovations have included updates to exhibit spaces, restrooms, elevators, lighting systems, HVAC systems, and more.

The Sant Ocean Hall

One of the most popular exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is the Sant Ocean Hall, which opened in 2008. The exhibit features a 1,500-gallon aquarium that showcases a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Other highlights of the exhibit include interactive displays on ocean currents, marine ecosystems, and human impacts on the ocean.

The Butterfly Pavilion

Another popular attraction at the museum is the Butterfly Pavilion, which allows visitors to walk among live butterflies and learn about their life cycles and habitats. The pavilion is open seasonally from April to September and requires a separate admission fee.

The Vast Collections at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is home to one of the largest collections of natural history specimens in the world. Its collections include over 145 million specimens and artifacts representing all aspects of natural history, from fossils to living organisms.

The museum’s collections are divided into several departments, each with its own focus area. These departments include:

• The Department of Anthropology – focuses on human cultures and societies around the world
• The Department of Botany – houses over 5 million plant specimens from around the world
• The Department of Entomology – has over 35 million insect specimens representing more than one million species
• The Department of Invertebrate Zoology – includes over 35 million specimens representing more than 95% of all known invertebrates
• The Department of Mineral Sciences – houses over 375,000 mineral specimens from around the world
• The Department of Paleobiology – focuses on fossils and ancient life forms from all periods in Earth’s history
• The Department of Vertebrate Zoology – includes over 640,000 specimens representing more than 95% of all known vertebrate species

The museum’s collections are used for research, education, and exhibition purposes. They are also an important resource for scientists and researchers around the world who study natural history.

The National Gem Collection

One of the most famous collections at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is the National Gem Collection. This collection includes some of the world’s most valuable and rare gems and minerals, including the Hope Diamond, which is on display in a special exhibit.

Other highlights of the National Gem Collection include a 100-carat yellow diamond, a 45-pound topaz crystal, and a giant amethyst geode weighing over 1 ton.

The Dinosaur Fossil Collection

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s dinosaur fossil collection is one of the largest in the world. It includes over 46 million years’ worth of fossils from dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.

Some of the most famous dinosaur fossils on display at the museum include:

• Tyrannosaurus rex – one of the largest meat-eating dinosaurs ever discovered
• Triceratops – a herbivorous dinosaur with three horns on its head
• Stegosaurus – a plant-eating dinosaur with distinctive plates on its back
• Diplodocus – a long-necked herbivore that lived during the Late Jurassic period
• Velociraptor – a small carnivorous dinosaur known for its sharp teeth and claws

The museum’s dinosaur exhibits allow visitors to learn about these fascinating creatures and their place in Earth’s history.

Significant Specimens at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is home to many significant specimens that have helped shape our understanding of the natural world. These specimens include fossils, minerals, plants, animals, and more.

Some of the most significant specimens at the museum include:

The Hope Diamond

The Hope Diamond is one of the most famous gems in the world and is on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. It weighs 45.52 carats and is known for its deep blue color and flawless clarity.

The diamond has a long and fascinating history, having been owned by several wealthy individuals before being donated to the Smithsonian in 1958. The exhibit that houses the Hope Diamond also includes information about its history and how it was formed.

The Giant Squid

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is home to a preserved specimen of a giant squid, which is one of the largest known invertebrates in the world. The specimen was caught off the coast of New Zealand in 2007 and measures over 24 feet long.

Giant squids are notoriously difficult to study because they live at great depths in the ocean and are rarely seen alive. The specimen at the museum allows visitors to learn about these mysterious creatures up close.

The T-Rex Skeleton

One of the most popular exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a cast skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur. The skeleton measures over 38 feet long and stands nearly 20 feet tall.

Tyrannosaurus rex was one of the largest meat-eating dinosaurs that ever lived and is known for its powerful jaws and sharp teeth. The exhibit allows visitors to learn about this fearsome creature’s biology, behavior, and place in Earth’s history.

When Did the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History First Open to the Public?

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History first opened its doors to the public on March 17, 1910. At the time, the museum’s collections included over 4 million specimens and artifacts representing all aspects of natural history.

The museum’s opening was a major event in Washington D.C., with thousands of people attending the dedication ceremony. President William Howard Taft gave a speech in which he praised the museum as a “monument to the progress of science.”

Since then, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has become one of the most popular museums in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its collections have grown to include over 145 million specimens and artifacts, making it one of the largest natural history museums in the world.

The Layout and Exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is organized into several exhibit halls that showcase different aspects of natural history. The museum’s exhibits cover everything from dinosaurs to human origins to gems and minerals.

Some of the most popular exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History include:

The Hall of Mammals

The Hall of Mammals features exhibits on mammals from around the world, including elephants, lions, bears, and more. The exhibit includes dioramas that depict different habitats and ecosystems where these animals live.

Visitors can learn about mammal biology, behavior, and evolution through interactive displays and hands-on activities. The exhibit also includes a collection of whale skeletons hanging from the ceiling.

The Human Origins Exhibit

The Human Origins exhibit explores our evolutionary history as a species by showcasing fossils and other artifacts related to human ancestors. Visitors can see casts of famous hominid fossils such as Lucy (Australopithecus afarensis) and Homo erectus.

The exhibit also includes interactive displays that allow visitors to explore virtual reconstructions of early hominid skulls and learn about how humans evolved over time.

The Butterfly Pavilion

The Butterfly Pavilion is a seasonal exhibit that allows visitors to walk among live butterflies and learn about their life cycles and habitats. The pavilion includes several species of butterflies from around the world, as well as plants that support their life cycle.

Visitors can observe butterflies up close and learn about their behavior and ecological role. The exhibit also includes information on butterfly conservation efforts around the world.

Funding and Operation of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is funded through a combination of private donations, government grants, and revenue generated from admissions fees, gift shop sales, and other sources. The museum’s annual budget is approximately $100 million.

The museum is part of the larger Smithsonian Institution, which receives federal funding from Congress each year. However, this funding only covers a portion of the institution’s operating expenses, so it relies heavily on private donations to fund its programs and exhibits.

In addition to its public-facing operations, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History also conducts research in various fields related to natural history. This research is supported by grants from government agencies such as the National Science Foundation and private foundations such as the Mellon Foundation.

Corporate Partnerships

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has also formed partnerships with corporations to help fund its operations. These partnerships include sponsorships for exhibits or programs, as well as donations for specific research projects or collections.

While these partnerships have been controversial at times due to concerns over corporate influence on scientific

Incorporating Technology into Exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has been incorporating technology into its exhibits to enhance visitors’ experiences. One way they have done this is through virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Visitors can use VR headsets to explore prehistoric landscapes or AR apps to see 3D models of specimens come to life.

Interactive Touchscreens

Another way technology has been integrated into exhibits is through interactive touchscreens. These screens allow visitors to learn more about specimens, watch videos, and even play games related to the exhibit topic. For example, in the Ocean Hall exhibit, visitors can use touchscreens to explore a virtual coral reef and learn about different marine species.

Online Exhibits

The museum has also created online exhibits that allow people from all over the world to explore their collections. These online exhibits include interactive features such as 360-degree views of specimens and behind-the-scenes tours of the museum’s research facilities.

Research Conducted at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Biodiversity Research

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is not just a place for visitors to learn about natural history; it is also an active research institution. The museum’s scientists conduct research on a wide range of topics, including biodiversity. They study everything from insects and plants to mammals and birds, with a focus on understanding how different species interact with each other and their environment.

Paleontology Research

The museum is also home to one of the largest paleontology collections in the world. Scientists at the museum study fossils from all over the globe, with a focus on understanding the evolution of life on Earth. They use cutting-edge techniques such as CT scanning to study fossils and learn more about extinct species.

Climate Change Research

The museum’s scientists are also actively studying the impacts of climate change on the natural world. They are working to understand how different species are responding to changes in temperature, precipitation, and other environmental factors. This research is critical for developing strategies to protect biodiversity in the face of a changing climate.

The Role in Addressing Climate Change at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Exhibits on Climate Change

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has several exhibits that address climate change and its impacts on the natural world. These exhibits include interactive features that allow visitors to learn more about how climate change is affecting different ecosystems around the globe.

Research on Climate Change

In addition to its exhibits, the museum is also actively involved in research related to climate change. Scientists at the museum are studying how different species are responding to changes in temperature, precipitation, and other environmental factors. This research is critical for developing strategies to protect biodiversity in the face of a changing climate.

Education and Outreach

The museum also plays an important role in educating the public about climate change and its impacts. Through educational programs, online resources, and outreach events, they work to raise awareness about this critical issue and inspire people to take action.

Educational Programs Offered by the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

School Group Programs

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History offers a variety of educational programs for school groups. These programs include guided tours of exhibits, hands-on activities related to science and natural history, and workshops led by museum scientists.

Summer Camps

The museum also offers summer camps for children of all ages. These camps provide opportunities for kids to explore the natural world, learn about different species, and engage in hands-on activities related to science and conservation.

Adult Education Programs

The museum also offers educational programs for adults, including lectures, workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours of the museum’s research facilities. These programs provide opportunities for lifelong learning and engagement with the natural world.

Touching Specimens While Exploring Exhibits at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

While visitors are not allowed to touch most specimens on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, there are some exhibits that do allow for a more hands-on experience. For example, in the Q?rius exhibit, visitors can handle real specimens such as fossils and rocks under the guidance of museum educators.

In addition, there are interactive touchscreens throughout many exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about specimens through virtual touch experiences. These screens provide a tactile experience without risking damage to delicate specimens.

Exploring All Exhibits at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History: How Long Does It Take?

The amount of time it takes to explore all exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History depends on several factors, including how much time you have available and your level of interest in each exhibit. However, most visitors spend between 2-3 hours exploring the museum’s exhibits.

If you want to see everything in detail or participate in guided tours or educational programs, plan on spending more time at the museum. Alternatively, if you only have a short amount of time available or just want to see some highlights, you can focus on specific exhibits or collections.

What Makes The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History Unique Compared to Other Museums?

Collections

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is unique in its vast and diverse collections. It is home to over 145 million specimens, including everything from dinosaur fossils to rare gems and minerals. These collections are used for research, education, and public outreach.

Research Institution

In addition to its role as a museum, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is also an active research institution. Its scientists conduct cutting-edge research on topics ranging from biodiversity to climate change, making it a hub for scientific discovery and innovation.

Interactive Exhibits

The museum’s exhibits are designed to be interactive and engaging, with features such as touchscreens, virtual reality experiences, and hands-on activities. This approach allows visitors to learn about natural history in a fun and immersive way.

Interactive Exhibits for Children at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

Butterfly Pavilion

The Butterfly Pavilion exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a popular attraction for children. This exhibit allows visitors to walk through a tropical habitat filled with live butterflies from around the world. Kids can observe these beautiful insects up close and learn about their life cycle and behavior.

Dinosaurs: Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries

This exhibit features life-size dinosaur skeletons, interactive displays, and hands-on activities that allow children to explore the world of dinosaurs. Kids can dig for fossils in a simulated excavation site or use touchscreens to learn more about different species of dinosaurs.

Ocean Hall

The Ocean Hall exhibit features interactive touchscreens that allow kids to explore a virtual coral reef and learn about different marine species. The exhibit also includes life-size models of whales, sharks, and other sea creatures that are sure to capture children’s imaginations.

Preserving Specimens for Display in Museums like The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

Collections Care

The preservation of specimens for display in museums like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a complex process that involves careful handling, storage, and documentation. Collections care staff work to ensure that specimens are protected from damage or deterioration over time.

Conservation Techniques

In addition to collections care, museums use a variety of conservation techniques to preserve specimens for display. These techniques include cleaning and stabilizing fossils, using special lighting and climate control systems to protect delicate specimens, and applying protective coatings to prevent damage from light or moisture.

Research on Preservation Techniques

Museums like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History also conduct research on new preservation techniques that can help extend the lifespan of specimens. This research is critical for ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from these important artifacts.

Dinosaur Fossils on Display at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. Some notable specimens on display include:

Tyrannosaurus Rex

The museum’s T-Rex skeleton is one of its most popular exhibits. This specimen is over 38 feet long and weighs more than 7 tons. Visitors can see this fearsome predator up close and learn about its behavior and anatomy.

Triceratops

The Triceratops skeleton on display at the museum is one of the most complete specimens ever found. Visitors can see this herbivorous dinosaur’s distinctive frill and three horns, which it likely used for defense against predators.

Stegosaurus

The Stegosaurus skeleton on display at the museum is one of the most complete specimens of this species ever found. Visitors can see its distinctive plates and spikes, which may have been used for defense or thermoregulation.

New Exhibit Planning and Development for The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

Research and Planning

The development of new exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History involves extensive research and planning. This process includes identifying exhibit themes, conducting research on relevant topics, and developing a storyline that will engage visitors.

Design and Construction

Once the concept for a new exhibit has been developed, designers work to create a layout that will showcase specimens in an engaging way. This process includes creating 3D models, designing interactive features such as touchscreens or virtual reality experiences, and selecting materials that will enhance the visitor experience.

Evaluation and Refinement

After an exhibit has been installed, museum staff evaluate its effectiveness in engaging visitors and meeting educational goals. They use feedback from visitors to refine exhibits over time, ensuring that they remain relevant and engaging for years to come.

Popular Exhibits at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

Ocean Hall

The Ocean Hall exhibit is one of the most popular exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This exhibit features life-size models of whales, sharks, and other marine creatures, as well as interactive touchscreens that allow visitors to explore a virtual coral reef.

Bone Hall

Bone Hall is another popular exhibit that showcases the museum’s extensive collection of animal skeletons. Visitors can see everything from a giant elephant to a tiny bat, and learn about the anatomy and behavior of different species.

Butterfly Pavilion

The Butterfly Pavilion exhibit is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. This exhibit allows visitors to walk through a tropical habitat filled with live butterflies from around the world, observing their behavior and learning about their life cycle.

Using Fossils to Learn About Prehistoric Times at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

Fossil Collections

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has one of the largest collections of fossils in the world. These fossils provide important clues about life on Earth millions of years ago, including information about extinct species and ancient ecosystems.

Paleontology Exhibits

The museum’s paleontology exhibits allow visitors to explore prehistoric times using fossils as a guide. Visitors can see life-size models of dinosaurs, observe real fossils up close, and learn about how scientists use these artifacts to understand the past.

Research on Fossils

In addition to its exhibits, the museum’s scientists are actively studying fossils to learn more about prehistoric times. They use cutting-edge techniques such as CT scanning to study fossils and reconstruct what extinct animals may have looked like in life.

North American Mammal Hall Exhibit at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

The North American Mammal Hall exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History features over 274 specimens representing 98 different mammal species found in North America. Some notable specimens include:

Bison

The bison specimen on display at the museum is one of the largest ever found. Visitors can see this iconic North American mammal up close and learn about its role in Native American culture and the history of western expansion.

Grizzly Bear

The grizzly bear specimen on display at the museum is one of the largest ever found. Visitors can see this powerful predator up close and learn about its behavior and habitat.

Mountain Lion

The mountain lion specimen on display at the museum is one of the few complete skeletons of this species in existence. Visitors can see how this agile predator was adapted to life in North America’s varied landscapes.

The Number of Visitors to The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History Each Year on Average?

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular museums in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. On average, the museum receives around 7 million visitors annually.

During peak times such as holidays or summer vacation, visitor numbers can be even higher. It is recommended that visitors plan ahead and arrive early to avoid long lines and crowds.

Is There a Fee to Enter The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

No, admission to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is free for all visitors. However, some special exhibits or programs may require an additional fee.

Donations are always appreciated and help support ongoing research, collections care, and

The Most Popular Exhibit at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History?

The Hall of Fossils – Deep Time

The Hall of Fossils – Deep Time is undoubtedly the most popular exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. It features a collection of dinosaur fossils and other prehistoric creatures that lived millions of years ago. Visitors can see the skeletons of a T-Rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and many others.

But what makes this exhibit unique is its interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what it was like to live during the time of these creatures. There are life-size dioramas that show how these animals interacted with each other and their environment. Visitors can also touch real fossils and learn about the science behind paleontology.

Other Popular Exhibits

• The Butterfly Pavilion
• Ocean Hall
• African Elephant Display

The Hope Diamond on Display at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History for How Long?

History of the Hope Diamond

The Hope Diamond is one of the most famous gems in the world, known for its deep blue color and fascinating history. It was originally mined in India and passed through many hands before being donated to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in 1958 by Harry Winston.

Since then, it has been on display at the museum for over 60 years, attracting millions of visitors every year. The diamond is housed in a special case that protects it from damage and allows visitors to see it up close.

Other Gems on Display

• The Star of Asia Sapphire
• The Napoleon Diamond Necklace
• The Hooker Emerald Brooch

Updating and Changing Exhibits Over Time at The Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History

Rotating Exhibits

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is constantly updating and changing its exhibits to keep visitors engaged and interested. One way they do this is by rotating exhibits on a regular basis. These temporary exhibits showcase different aspects of natural history, from the evolution of birds to the role of insects in our ecosystem.

By rotating exhibits, the museum can keep visitors coming back to see what’s new and exciting. It also allows them to showcase items from their vast collection that may not be on permanent display.

Upcoming Exhibits

• Beyond Bollywood: Indian Americans Shape the Nation (opens 2022)
• The Great Inka Road: Engineering an Empire (opens 2023)
• Ocean Hall Refresh (ongoing)

What Visitors Should Not Miss While Exploring the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Sant Ocean Hall

The Sant Ocean Hall is one exhibit that visitors should not miss while exploring the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. It features a 1,500-gallon aquarium that showcases a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

In addition to the aquarium, there are interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about ocean currents, marine ecosystems, and conservation efforts. There is even a life-size model of a North Atlantic right whale hanging from the ceiling!

Other Must-See Exhibits

• The David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins
• The Butterfly Pavilion
• The Hall of Mammals

The Future of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Renovations and Upgrades

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is currently undergoing a major renovation that will update and modernize many of its exhibits. This includes upgrading technology, adding interactive displays, and improving accessibility for visitors with disabilities.

One major project is the renovation of the Fossil Halls, which will feature new exhibits on human evolution and the history of life on Earth. The museum is also planning to expand its collections storage facilities to accommodate its growing collection.

New Exhibits in Development

• The Hall of Human Evolution (opens 2024)
• The Arctic Studies Center (opens 2025)
• The Global Volcanism Program (ongoing)

In conclusion, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a remarkable institution that provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about the natural world and its history. With its vast collection of specimens and exhibits, it serves as a valuable resource for research and education in the field of natural sciences.