To keep pace with the changing nature of science, the American Museum of Natural History developed Science Bulletins, an innovative Web site that makes current science events and research accessible to the public. Science Bulletins presents the latest developments in the fields of astrophysics, human biology, Earth science, and conservation, through feature videos that highlight scientists in the field, cutting-edge data visualizations of Earth and the cosmos, and snapshots of the natural world. The Science Bulletins Web site provides in-depth coverage of current stories as well as an archive of past stories.

An educator’s resource guide provides teachers with ways to incorporate Science Bulletins into their science curriculum. These activities correlate to the National Science Education Standards. Discussion questions, links to related NASA resources, and links to our own Resources for Learning site offer effective uses for the compelling videos, data visualizations, and interactives that will kindle students’ interest in science, stimulate inquiry, and support in-depth student research.

Science Bulletins focuses on four main content areas.

• Astronomy presents news about the observable universe. Feature videos explore developments in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics. Data visualizations simulate journeys through the cosmos, and Snapshots provide images of stars, galaxies, and other celestial bodies from observatories on Earth and in space.
• Earth Science delves into our planet’s secrets, uncovering Earth’s dynamic systems. Feature videos illustrate how scientists decipher Earth’s past and present. Data visualizations present interactive satellite views of our dynamic planet. Snapshots report on the earthquake and volcanic activity demonstrating the motion of Earth’s tectonic plates.
• Biodiversity reports on the status of the diversity of life on Earth, focusing on its habitats and millions of species. Feature videos follow the work of scientists around the globe. Bio viz videos provide interactive satellite views of seasonal and long-term changes in the biosphere. Snapshots highlight our planet’s natural ecosystems.
• Human Biology explores the science of our species, covering fossil and genetic research on human evolution as well as studies on human health and neuroscience. Biweekly news stories update viewers about the latest findings with compelling graphics such as real scientific models and data, medical imaging, field photographs, and satellite images. Feature stories follow the researchers working to answer key scientific questions about the past, present, and future of Homo sapiens.

Information is presented in the following formats:

• Feature Videos Produced by an award-winning team of research scientists, videographers, and producers, the five-to-seven minute feature videos follow scientists into the field as they conduct their research. Feature videos cover such topics as: space weather and how it affects the Earth; how scientists predict the long-range impact of volcanic eruptions, and how scientists use cloning as a means of saving endangered species.
• Data Visualizations Captured by sophisticated satellite tools, data on global natural phenomena such as ozone levels, sea surface temperatures, and ocean productivity are presented as compelling animations. These videos allow the viewer to interpret the data presented and draw conclusions in the same manner as scientists. Updated on a rotating basis, the data visualizations provide a unique new way of understanding Earth’s systems.
• Snapshots Dynamic graphics and extraordinary photographs taken by satellites, space probes, and observatories around the world present breaking news about the biosphere, the Earth, and the universe. These annotated images are updated weekly and serve to underscore the ever-changing nature of our planet and our universe.
• Related Resources are provided for all current and archived stories. Many of these will have direct links to additional resources. Every story will include a written synopsis of the story and Educator Resources that guide teachers’ use of the stories in their classrooms. In addition, some stories will include other related resources like maps, glossaries, and interactives and essays that support and extend the information in the story.