Museum Access Season 1 Episode 2 The Field Museum of Natural History

Museum Access season 1 episode 2 takes viewers on a virtual tour of The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, Illinois. Hosted by museum educator Celeste Labedz, the episode explores various exhibits and specimens throughout the museum.

Labedz begins by introducing viewers to the significance of The Field Museum, explaining that it is one of the largest natural history museums in the world and houses over 40 million specimens and artifacts. She then takes viewers on a virtual tour of the museum's iconic Stanley Field Hall, which features a massive Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton named Sue. Labedz provides interesting facts about Sue and explains how paleontologists were able to reconstruct the skeletal remains of a T. rex.

Next, Labedz leads viewers through the museum's Evolving Planet exhibition, which tells the story of the history of life on Earth. Several displays showcase the evolution of plants and animals, including ancient insects trapped in amber and the iconic Woolly Mammoth. Labedz explains how scientists study fossils to learn about extinct species and how they adapted to different environments.

After exploring Evolving Planet, Labedz takes viewers to the Ancient Americas exhibit, which showcases the indigenous cultures and civilizations that arose in North and South America before European settlers arrived. Display cases contain artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles, as well as murals and replicas of structures like the Aztec Templo Mayor. Labedz speaks about the importance of preserving and learning about these cultures, as well as the challenges that come with studying and exhibiting objects that are hundreds or even thousands of years old.

The episode then moves to the Grainger Science Hub, a learning space within the museum that provides hands-on experiences for visitors. Labedz demonstrates some of the interactive exhibits, including a virtual reality simulation that allows participants to explore different environments and learn about the animals that live there. She also introduces viewers to the museum's DNA Discovery Center, where visitors can extract their own DNA and learn about genetics and genomics.

Finally, Labedz concludes the episode by highlighting The Field Museum's dedication to conservation and preservation. She discusses the museum's role in protecting endangered species and the environment, and explains how scientists work to study and protect ecosystems around the world. She encourages viewers to learn more about these issues and to take action in their own lives to promote sustainability and conservation.

Museum Access season 1 episode 2 provides a fascinating look at the collections and exhibits of The Field Museum of Natural History. Through Labedz's engaging commentary and the stunning visuals presented, viewers are able to learn about the history of life on Earth, the variety of cultures that have inhabited the Americas, and the importance of conservation and preservation efforts.