The convergence of art and science gets a new treatment in an
exhibition opening next week at the American Museum of Natural
History. "Picturing Science: Museum Scientists and Imaging
Technologies" features more than 20 sets of large-format and
visually engaging images that showcase the wide range of
research being conducted at the museum as well as how various
optical tools are used in scientific research. A preview:
Tibetan deity wood figure Conservators at the museum use x-ray
imaging to examine many artifacts. In this case ritualistic
objects, known as consecration items, were discovered in a
hidden cavity within this figure. Previous repairs to the
artifact were also revealed. Ponyfish (Secutor ruconius) An
ichthyologist at the museum highlights details of cichlids and
other small fish using biological dyes. An arachnologist uses UV
fluorescence imaging to study scorpions. In this case 10
different species of Opistophthalmus, or burrowing scorpions,
were examined. Credits: J. Levinson and K. Knauer/AMNH