Here at the National Academy of Sciences, we are beginning to create a science center that will draw upon the uniqueness of this institution, its prominent elected scientist members and the public policy studies carried out through its National Research Council. We are looking at ways to create exhibits and programs in Washington that draw from this content-rich organization, rather than those that might be more appropriate to a science center based elsewhere. In addition, we are seeking ways to share Academy-developed content with other science centers and organizations nationally and internationally. Such efforts can not only help these institutions address the needs of their local audiences but also leverage the resources of the National Academy. I would welcome the thoughts of APS members as we develop our Marian Koshland Science Museum.
Physicists can play an important supporting role.
Many science centers, particularly smaller ones, lack depth in scientific resources. Faculty can serve as advisors, volunteers, exhibit developers as well as encourage their students to become involved. In these roles, conveying the excitement of physics, going beyond the textbook by adding human interest and humor, would add great value. Researchers can include funds for outreach in their grant proposals and work with local science centers on ways to communicate their work to the public. One of the most effective synergies might be working jointly with science centers on physics demonstrations developed for the classroom.