@Nasa
With 86m followers, no round-up of science accounts to follow would be complete without NASA. If you want a direct feed of the Milky Way from the Nasa Hubble, complete with new stars being born or a time lapse of the sun’s solar activity, this is where to find such mind-expanding content. Perfect for sharing with space-mad smalls too, each post makes the planet and the universe feel both tiny and endless in equal measures. Follow.
@Natgeo
If you are looking for beautiful photography from our natural world, all alongside documentary-style content on the latest geographic and biological research, National Geographic’s feed is filled with studies, discoveries and fascinating ‘did you knows?’ that are sure to enlighten. Follow.
@popsci
For 150 years, Popular Science has been highlighting wonders from the worlds of science and technology. Obviously, the Instagram feed hasn’t been around that long but in more recent years they’ve shared infographic, photographic and video content to showcase news-worthy launches, discoveries and research to keep their followers up-to-date. Their #askusanything series of pub quiz style trivia offers brilliant geeky nuggets that answer those big questions, such as ‘are megalodons still alive?’ and ‘how do planes fly?’. Follow.
@women.doing.science
As its name makes clear, this account celebrates a range of inspiring female scientists in the world of STEM from around the global. Here they share their latest accomplishments, details of their career journeys and breakthroughs in their fields – many of which have been traditionally dominated by men. From marine biologists to biochemists, this account is perfect for STEM-curious young girls looking for role-models in their future dream jobs. Follow.
@astronautabbyofficial
Bio Chemist Abby Harrison shares explainer videos on all things space exploration, alongside her inspiring quest to be the first astronaut to Mars. She has also been listed in Forbes 30 under 30 for her non-profit, The Mars Generation, which was set up to inspire kids and adults alike to venture into the world of STEM. Follow.
@thephysicsgirl
A hit with younger audiences on Instagram and YouTube, Dianna Cowern – aka The Physics Girl – is a MIT graduate, who shares fun, engaging optical illusions and science experiences, and then explains how the brain works. Plus she does it all without stuffy long words or a lab-coat in sight. Follow.
@cern
Ever wondered what goes on inside the world’s largest particle physics laboratory? Us too. Check out @cern for a peek inside the European Organisation for Nuclear Research. Do prepare for some mind-bending science, big words and even bigger machines. Intrigued? They also have a regular podcast for those looking for an extra hit of nuclear know-how. Follow.
@newscientist
A media-outlet feed for all things ‘breaking news’ in the world of science, this is a great follow if you want to stay on top of the latest discoveries, advances and research – all in bite-size, engaging posts. Follow.
@astrophysics_
Don’t be daunted by the handle. Science enthusiast and author Aidan Remple’s feed simply allows you to venture on a space odyssey from the comfort of your home feed. Sharing incredible 4k imagery both of space and from space, you can see moons, stars and our own blue planet like never before– alongside brilliant explainer captions which answer many ‘big space’ questions in easy-to-digest captions. Follow.
By Lydia Mansi
January 2023
