The Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments

Time, Life, & Matter: Science in Cambridge

Plan your visit to the collection today!
Detail of Time, Life, & Matter exhibit

Measuring Difference Online Exhibition

Today, measurement is everywhere. We understand everything around us in inches, degrees, gallons, decibels, and more. Scientific instruments help us record precise measurements of what surrounds us—from land and sea to flora and fauna, human activity and productivity, and even human bodies. We measure what we can touch and see, as well as things we can’t, like stress and pain.

View the Measuring Difference Online Exhibition
Loba Garifuna by Nancy Friedemann-Sánchez

The Harvard IBM Mark I

 In July 2021, the Mark I was moved across the Charles River to a new home with
Harvard's John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Science. 

Learn more about the Harvard IBM Mark I
Nighttime view of Harvard IBM Mark I

Explore the Collection

Waywiser

The Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments comprises over 20,000 objects, many with associated documentation. In an effort to provide greater access to these important objects and records, Collection staff have implemented a state-of-the-art data management system, including an online component called Waywiser.

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