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Cockcroft-Walton accelerator

Object of the month

Discover a treasure trove of riches from around the world.

Our museums showcase rare, exotic and distinctive artefacts from the four corners of the globe. Here you can discover some of the most unusual and interesting objects and find out what it takes to restore them to their full glory. Click on an area of the map to discover objects relating to that part of the world, or see the latest objects listed below.

 

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May 2013: Cockcroft-Walton generator

This generator was developed in the early 1930s to accomplish the first artificial splitting of the atom.

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April 2013: Ruston steam excavator

Find out how our conservation team restored this classic steam shovel to its former glory.

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March 2013: Weaving loom

This weaving loom collected by David Livingstone among the Mang’anja people in Mozambique or Malawi reveals fascinating links between past and present.

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February 2013: Meissen lion

Meet this impressive porcelain figure from the 18th century.

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January 2013: Sendtner orrery

The story of this 100-year-old planetarium provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of science interpretation, and a behind-the-scenes peek into early 20th century museum politics.

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December 2012: Chantal Meteor 200 jukebox

Which tracks would you pick on this classic late 1950s jukebox?

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November 2012: Art at War

Discover paintings, drawings and pastels from the military collection at National Museums Scotland.

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October 2012: Atalanta and Hippomenes overmantel

Uncover the history of a 17th-century stone carving which reflects changing tastes in interior design through the years.

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September 2012: Avro Anson

See this vintage plane undergoing restoration at the National Museum of Flight.

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August 2012: Deskford carnyx

Find out how this iconic Celtic trumpet has been reconstructed to bring the music of the past to life.

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July 2012: Midsummer Chronophage

This amazing clock is both a work of art and a unique way of displaying time.

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June 2012: Newcomen engine

Visitors to the Scotland Transformed gallery at National Museum of Scotland cannot miss the mighty Newcomen engine.


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National Museums Scotland, Scottish Charity, No. SC 011130