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Collections and Objects

Our world-class collection forms an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical achievements from across the globe. Come behind the scenes as we explore new object acquisitions and meet the conservation team.

`Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi, a celebrated medieval Persian astronomer from the 10th century, is a key figure in the history of astronomy. He is famed for his great star catalogue, and for making the earliest known reference to a galaxy other than the Milky Way.

Newly suspended from the ceiling of the Making the Modern World gallery in the Science Museum is Spirit of Innovation, the world’s fastest all-electric aircraft. Former Assistant Curator Laura Büllesbach reveals insights into its ground-breaking design, the technological boundaries it pushes and what the aircraft might mean for the future of sustainable aviation.

On 11 May 1997 – more than 25 years ago – a computer beat the world chess champion, Garry Kasparov. How has our world changed since then? And what does it mean when computers win against people?

Born this day in 1877, Garrett Morgan was the mind behind several inventions that still play a role in our daily lives. However, as a Black man living in the USA during the turn of the 19th century, he faced considerable racism and discrimination throughout his life.

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