Science helps satisfy the natural curiosity with which we are all born: why is the sky blue, how did the leopard get its spots, what is a solar eclipse? With science, we can answer such questions without resorting to magical explanations. And science can lead to technological advances, as well as helping us learn about enormously important and useful topics, such as our health, the environment, and natural hazards. Without science, the modern world would not be modern at all, and we still have much to learn.

Scientists are everywhere, unraveling the secrets of the universe.

Millions of scientists all over the world are working to solve different parts of the puzzle of how the universe works, peering into its nooks and crannies, deploying their microscopes, telescopes, and other tools to unravel its secrets.

Science doesn't just take place in laboratories. You can have fun with and make use of science in everyday life.

To many, science may seem like an arcane, ivory-towered institution -- but that impression is based on a misunderstanding of science. In fact:

• Science affects your life everyday in all sorts of different ways.
• Science can be fun and is accessible to everyone.
• You can apply an understanding of how science works to your everyday life.
• Anyone can become a scientist -- of the amateur or professional variety.

In 2009, we are celebrating science and you are invited to join in on the celebration!

Images and text from the new Understanding Science website.