Explore Science & Nature

Understanding the cosmos and our Earth
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Microscopic images of some diseases
Smithsonian Stories

What Causes Disease Outbreaks and How Can We Stop Them?

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History offers a critical science lesson for the 21st century.
mineral
National Museum of Natural History

Minerals and Gems

The Smithsonian's mineral and gem collection at the National Museum of Natural History is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Flamingos in water as snow falls.
Smithsonian Stories

Keeping Warm in Winter Is for the Birds

Find out how birds survive the whipping winds of winter.
corona virus visualization.
Smithsonian Science Education Center

COVID-19! How Can I Protect Myself and Others?

Engage in activities to explore the impact of COVID-19, understand the science, and learn how to stay safe.
vaccine vials
National Museum of American History

Chasing Influenza

Unlike other infectious diseases, where a single dose or series of doses confers long-term protection, flu vaccination is an annual affair.
black hole
Smithsonian Snapshot

First-Ever Image of a Black Hole

Captured by the Event Horizon Telescope, this image reveals the supermassive black hole at the center of Messier 87.
shark
National Museum of Natural History

Ocean Portal: All About Sharks

Learn about these incredible animals—and the ecosystems in which they play a role.
Nick Pyenson
National Museum of Natural History

Time Travel With Smithsonian Paleontologist: Nick Pyenson

His job as a time traveler is to make discoveries about the past that can help shape our future.
3 bears caught on camera
Smithsonian Collaboration

eMammal: See Wildlife, Do Science

Place “camera traps” in your community to assist researchers in answering questions about mammal distribution and abundance.
watershed
Smithsonian Global

Restoring Landscapes in the Panama Canal Watershed

Scientists study how to transform degraded landscapes into healthy forests, clean water, and eco-friendly ranches.
birds in nest
Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center

Neighborhood Nestwatch

Be a biologist in your own backyard! Neighborhood Nestwatch participants help answer questions related to the survival of bird populations.
orchid
Smithsonian Spotlight

Orchids: Nature's Art

Smithsonian Gardens has more than 8,000 specimens. Explore a selection from the collection along with art inspired by these beautiful blooms.