The galleries
Special Exhibits
Explore new and upcoming exhibits at MMGM.
Micrometeorites: Space Dust in Maine
Tiny, elusive particles from outer space fall to Earth every day. This new special exhibit explores the different types of micrometeorites and their sources, how to find them, and why they matter. 28 specimens collected in Bethel by Maine micrometeorite hunter and NASA Solar System Ambassador, Jon Wallace, are on display through at least May 2025.
Like all other exhibits in the Discovery Gallery, Micrometeorites: Space Dust in Maine can be viewed free of charge while the museum is open.
Celebrating the Life of Frank C. Perham
This special exhibit was created to honor the life and legacy of famed pegmatite miner, Frank C. Perham. Known for his expert knowledge, generosity of spirit, incredible mining stories, and uncanny knack for finding pockets, Frank was the most experienced pegmatite miner in western Maine and made some of the most significant mineral discoveries in the state.
Like all other exhibits in the Discovery Gallery, Celebrating the Life of Frank C. Perham can be viewed in the Discovery Gallery, free of charge while the museum is open.
"Fly Me to the Moon"
“Fly Me to the Moon” exhibit at the Portland International Jetport
The Portland International Jetport (PWM) is now home to a new “destination” which no other airport in the world can compete: the Moon. This new exhibit, unveiled in early April of 2024, displays the second largest piece of the Moon on Earth, one of the largest pieces of Mars on Earth, samples of some of the most beautiful extraterrestrial substances yet discovered, and an iconic Gibeon meteorite celebrated for its striking resemblance to Edvard Munch’s, “The Scream.”
Lithium: Batteries & Beyond
Take a deep dive into the world of lithium and lithium resources.
Lithium plays a major role in moving the global clean energy economy forward, and is at the heart of conversations in Maine and around the world. This special exhibit introduces the element in its most basic form, investigates the many minerals that contain lithium metals, objectively explores current issues (from mining to manufacturing to recycling), and outlines the various everyday products that require lithium to help us live in today’s world.
Visit Lithium: Batteries & Beyond in the Discovery Gallery, free of charge, every day the museum is open.
The Big Find: The Legend Continues
In October of 1972, the largest single discovery of gem-quality tourmaline was found in the hills of Western Maine. To celebrate this dazzling find, the MMGM commissioned 12 artists to create extraordinary, one-of-a-kind pieces utilizing gemstone from The Big Find. These 12 pieces commemorate the unbelievable nature of the exquisite discovery, and showcase the dynamic beauty of modern-day craft and artistry. The pieces are currently on display in the museum store.