Smithsonian Affiliate Program Selects Las Vegas Natural History Museum to Have a Portion of its Collection Specially Digitized

A portion of the Museum’s collection will be scanned then three-dimensionally digitized for national and international education and research purposes

LAS VEGAS – As an affiliate to the Smithsonian Institute, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum has been selected to take part in a Smithsonian Affiliates Program in which a portion of its collection will be electronically scanned then three-dimensionally digitized for national and international research purposes.

Pieces to be scanned range from the very large to the very small, including both paleontological and archaeological finds such as a Gomphothere skull and atlatl points. Digital replicas of these materials will be shared to researchers across the globe as an opportunity to study collection pieces in ways not that have not been previously available. An added benefit to the 3-D scans, especially fragile and sensitive materials, is the protection and preservation of original artifacts.

“This project is exciting for the Las Vegas Natural Museum because we are able to use innovative technology to help conserve those items under our care and use the digital renderings of these items for research and educational purposes. All the while keeping the original items safe and intact,” said resident paleontologist and UNLV geo-science professor, Dr. Joshua Bonde. “Potentially, researchers and educators around the world will be able to have access to Nevada’s heritage via these digital files.”

For more information on the Las Vegas Natural History Museum and its exhibits, visit Facebook, Twitter or www.lvnhm.org.

ABOUT THE LVNHM:
The Las Vegas Natural History Museum opened in 1991 and is a private, non–profit institution dedicated to educating children, adults, and families in the natural sciences, both past and present.  Through its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and the preservation of its collections, the Museum strives to instill an understanding and appreciation of the world’s wildlife, ecosystems, and cultures.  Please visit www.lvnhm.org or call (702) 384–3466 for additional information.

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