NSF PR 01-16 - February 28, 2001
Media contact:
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Amber Jones
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(703) 292-8070
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aljones@nsf.gov
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Program contact:
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Eileen Friel
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(703) 292-4895
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efriel@nsf.gov
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Exploring the Universe: Smithsonian Exhibit Gets
NSF Funds
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has pledged $1.35
million over three years for the Smithsonian Institution's
new permanent exhibit, "Explore the Universe," which
will open in September 2001 at the National Air and
Space Museum. NSF's first-year commitment is $750,000.
The exhibit, now in the design stage, will show how
our understanding of the universe has changed over
time as the tools used to study it have evolved.
"We are pleased to lend our support to an exhibit that
showcases the magnificence of the universe and the
efforts of scientists to understand it," said Robert
Eisenstein, NSF assistant director for mathematical
and physical sciences.
The exhibition will showcase tools that astronomers
have devised over the centuries to explore outer space,
including telescopes, photography and spectroscopy.
Artifacts and models of historic and current instruments,
including telescopes on Kitt Peak, Ariz., operated
by NSF's National Optical Astronomy Observatories,
will demonstrate the importance of ground-based and
space-based technologies.
Interactive displays, videos and computer programs
will help explain the electromagnetic spectrum, the
basics of astrophysics and cosmology, and what we
know about what lies in and beyond our solar system.
The displays will be rich with astronomical images
of the evolving universe.
"This support from the National Science Foundation
greatly expands our opportunities to educate the public
about astronomical achievements and to inspire the
future scientists among the museum's visitors," said
Gen. John R. Dailey, director of the National Air
and Space Museum.
Plans for the exhibit include educational materials
for teachers and students, teacher workshops and student
internships.
NSF is an independent federal agency which supports
fundamental research and education across all fields
of science and engineering, with an annual budget
of about $4.5 billion. NSF funds reach all 50 states,
through grants to about 1,600 universities and institutions
nationwide. Each year, NSF receives about 30,000 competitive
requests for funding, and makes about 10,000 new funding
awards.
For instant information about NSF, sign up for the
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