Scientists just looked inside Darwin’s 200-year-old specimen jars without opening them
Science Daily
March 5, 2026
Scientists have used a laser technique to analyze Charles Darwin’s original Galápagos specimens without opening their nearly 200-year-old jars. By shining light through the glass, the method reveals the chemical makeup of the preservation fluids inside. Researchers successfully identified the contents in most samples, offering new clues about historical preservation practices. The breakthrough could help museums protect millions of delicate specimens without risking damage.
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Originally published on Science Daily on 3/5/2026