Lucy fossil continues to inspire, educate

The 3.2-million-year-old Australopith named Lucy has been called the poster child for human evolution. Discovered in 1974 by paleoanthropologist Donald Johanson, currently a professor in Arizona State University’s School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Lucy continues to mesmerize the scientific community and those interested in the journey of humankind.

Lucy is the oldest bipedal adult human ancestor ever found, and her remains are additionally remarkable because of the level of completeness: 40% intact. These ancient bones are normally housed in the National Museum of Ethiopia in Lucy’s homeland; however, they will be on display in Seattle’s Pacific Science Center from October 4, 2008, until March 8, 2009. A cast of the original remains is available for public viewing in the Institute of Human Origins, located on the ASU Tempe campus.