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Canada's National Museum of Science and Technology <A HREF="http://www.science-tech.nmstc.ca"> http://www.science-tech.nmstc.ca </A> An intriguing sampler of science in action Who would have thought that with the launch of "Alouette" in 1962, Canada became the third country to have a satellite in earth orbit? Certainly not those of us from the USA, who grew up thinking that Russia and the USA were the only nations to explore space. But Canada in Space, one of many fascinating areas on Canada's National Museum of Science and Technology website, offers this insight, along with a cogent history of the nation's space programme. Other sections of the website provide equally provocative glimpses into Canada's scientific and technological heritage. Included are a "sampler of scientific instruments"--laboratory equipment, meteorological apparatus, surveying tools; an exhibit on "materials which shaped our world" that explores the roles of ceramics, metals, polymers, and composites in creating many of the high-tech items in use today; delightful exhibits on bicycle history and the evolution of the steam locomotive; and--my favorite--a collection on lighting that includes electric lights, aesthetic and functional lighting, and arc, incandescent, mercury, sodium, and fluorescent lamps. All of the online exhibits, which are quickly accessible in the "Collection" section, are written in a clear and lively fashion and accompanied by images, many of which are clickable for larger views. The site also features scientific papers on conservation and restoration, samples of historical catalogues, including one on medical equipment, and a "kid's zone" with online games. In sum, the website does a good job of augmenting the museum's mission "to study the transformation of Canada" and disseminate the information "beyond the exhibit floor." Lancet 2000; 355: 1285 - 1286 <A HREF="http://www.thelancet.com/"> http://www.thelancet.com/ </A> janet paterson 53 now / 41 dx / 37 onset a new voice: http://www.geocities.com/janet313/ 613 256 8340 PO Box 171 Almonte Ontario Canada K0A 1A0