The Art of African Exploration

Location: Ground Floor, Constitution Avenue Lobby Cases
Exhibit: December 9, 2008 – August 16, 2009 

Two new exhibit cases offer a unique glimpse into African exploration as seen through the eyes of Westerners, and told through the experiences of artists, travelers and scientists who explored the continent in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Highlighting the imagery that emerged during that time, the display paints a spirited picture of African exploration. The public was enthralled by exciting adventure stories, unfamiliar landscapes, and the stark challenges of travel in unknown lands, while scientists discovered, observed and described a wealth of previously unknown species.

The Evolution Trail

Location: Throughout the Museum
Exhibit: December 2008 - Permanent

Why are dinosaurs extinct? Why do giraffes have long necks? Why do flowers come in many colors? Follow Iggy the Iguana on the Evolution Trail throughout the Museum and find the answers to these and other questions. Explore the exhibits to discover how environmental changes, natural selection, extinction, and other factors play a part in the ongoing process of evolution.

Nature's Best Photography 2008 Awards Exhibit

Location: Second Floor
Exhibit: November 8, 2008 – May 3, 2009

Wildlife, up close and personal! Meet rare endangered species, and see indigenous cultures living in some of the harshest climates on Earth. The Nature’s Best Photography 2008 Windland Smith Rice International Awards exhibit features 45 photographs that bring nature to life. These stunning portraits of plants, animals, and people celebrate the beauty of nature while recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship. (c) David Maitland

The Sant Ocean Hall

Location: First Floor
Exhibit: Permanent

A one-of-a-kind interpretive exhibit, extraordinary in scale, the Sant Ocean Hall presents the global ocean from a cross-disciplinary perspective, highlighting the biological, geological, and anthropological expertise and unparalleled scientific collections of the Museum, as well as ongoing research in marine science. The ocean is intrinsically connected to other global systems and to our daily lives. Artist rendering of the Sant Ocean Hall

Orchids through Darwin’s Eyes

Location: First Floor
Exhibit: January 24, 2009 – April 26, 2009

Charles Darwin used orchids to help prove his theories of natural selection and evolution. Scientists today follow in Darwin’s footsteps and use orchids to learn more about how plants have evolved and adapted to live in almost every type of environment around the world. Come explore the alluring world of orchids through the eyes of Darwin and the naturalists, horticulturists, and scientists he influenced. Discover new insights and curious surprises about these captivating plants, including the only orchid fossil ever discovered!

Written in Bone: Forensic Files of the 17th-Century Chesapeake

Location: Second Floor
Exhibit: February 7, 2009 – February 6, 2011

Human anatomy and forensic investigation provide intriguing information on people and events of America's past. This exhibition will examine history through 17th-century bone biographies, including those of colonists teetering on the edge of survival at Jamestown, Virginia, and those of wealthy and well-established individuals of St. Mary’s City, Maryland. At no other time in our history have we had the technological capability or opportunity that are now available to help us tell this tale.

Revealing 100 Years: Scientific Photography at the National Museum of Natural History

Location: Second Floor
Exhibit: May 29, 2010 – October 17, 2010

The Museum marks its 100th birthday with a special exhibition highlighting the behind-the-scenes research that furthers scientific knowledge and informs our public educational programs.  Over the last century, scientists have used technological advances in photography to see farther, deeper, and in more detail than ever before.  Photographs both old and new demonstrate how these researchers have relied on photography to document their findings and to reveal the natural world that lies hidden to the naked eye.

Dig It! The Secrets of Soil

A new virtual exhibit that journeys into the skin of the earth and explores the amazing world of soil. This web site is a virtual exploration of the Dig It! traveling exhibition now on display at the National Museum of Natural History. Completely familiar yet largely unknown, soils help sustain virtually every form of life on Earth. Dig It! transports visitors to the world of fungi, bacteria, worms, and countless other organisms. The online exhibit includes educational activities and teacher resources.

Atmosphere: Change is in the Air

An exciting and interactive new virtual exhibition that offers a comprehensive exploration of Earth's atmosphere. This web exhibit is based on the compelling temporary exhibit, Change is in the Air, produced by the Smithsonian's Natural History Museum and on display until November 2006. Includes flash interactives, videos, and educational materials.