science museum in nation's capital

science museum in nation's capital

Not many people know, including native Washingtonians, that the nation capital is home to a science museum. The Marian Koshland Science Museum is part of the National Academy of Sciences and has lots of interesting exhibits to learn everything from emerging infectious diseases to what the universe is made of.

WHAT YOU SEE: The museum exhibits are all interactive with lots of things to look at and touch. The Lights at Night experience lets visitors see satellite images of the earth, including being able to zoom in on your hometown. You can also compare images of the Earth from different years. The infectious disease gallery shows what viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites look like up close. You also get a lesson on how these things cause infectious diseases. Other exhibits there explore climate change and the causes of global warming. The museum will open a new Earth Lab on Sept. 15, 2011, that allow visitors to explore the impacts of climate change and simulate taking on the role of decision makers. The simulation game lets visitors try their hand at different strategies to lower carbon dioxide emissions, make decisions on priorities and how they compare to other players.

GOOD FOR KIDS: Very good for kids. No ick factor with this science museum and the interactive exhibits keep the interest of children. The museum has hands on science activities most Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM.

HOURS OF OPERATION: The museum opens daily except Tuesdays at 10 AM and the last admission is at 5 PM. The museum is closed Tuesdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Years Eve and New Years Day.