The Smithsonian is now sharing 3D scans of artifacts with the public

The Smithsonian is taking the next step in sharing its massive collection with the public. Today marks the release of the Smithsonian X 3D Explorer, a tool that will eventually allow students, educators, and laypeople to interact with 3D models of the museum’s 137 million artifacts. The tool will also let users 3D print scale models of artifacts (including fossils and the Wright Brothers’ aircraft) that could otherwise never be touched.