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Fact Sheet

The mission of the Marian Koshland Science Museum is to engage the general public in current scientific issues that impact their lives. The museum’s state-of-the-art exhibits, public programs, and educational programs provide information that stimulates discussion and provides insight into how science supports decision-making.

As "advisers to the Nation on science, engineering and medicine," studies conducted by the National Academies influence public policy decisions regarding controversial science-related matters.

Exhibits

Interactive displays illustrate the role of science in informing national policy and personal decisions impacting people’s daily lives. A majority of the museum’s exhibits are temporary; new exhibits will be announced as they become available. More than 30 Academy members and other scientists participated in developing the museum’s interactive displays, which use sophisticated technology to provide a visual and in-depth museum experience. The museum’s current exhibits explore

Infectious Disease: Evolving Challenges to Human Health: This exhibition explores the microbial world we live in, examines the emergence of new threats, and shows how our response determines the spread of disease.

Global Warming Facts & Our Future: This exhibition explores issues related to global warming, including possible implications of this phenomenon for the quality of life worldwide.

Wonders of Science: This introductory section displays scientific animations that illustrate ground-breaking scientific research and includes a film, What is the Universe Made Of? The film and animations are updated periodically.

Putting DNA to Work: Now on travel. This exhibit explores how DNA sequencing technology is used to solve many of today’s challenges.

Public Events

The Koshland Science Museum offers engaging, interactive public programs for adults and students. Programs and special events provide a social setting for discussions with experts and colleagues about how research informs the policy debate.

Educational Programs

The Koshland Science Museum facilitates inquiry-based, structured field trips for students in grades 7-12 and undergraduates. Educational activities are also offered for groups, teachers, and school district coordinators.

Location

Located at the corner of 6th & E Streets, N.W. in Washington, DC, the museum is within one block of the Verizon Center and National Building Museum, and three blocks of the National Mall. The museum is located at the Gallery Place/Chinatown and Judiciary Square stops on the Metro.

Museum Hours

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., except Tuesdays and the following holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

Admission

Admission rates are $5 for adults and $3 for seniors (65+), active duty military, and students (ages 5 – 18; college students with ID). Group rates are available. Admission proceeds support the museum’s education and public programs.

Contact

Museum Communications Officer, 202-334-1201

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