X-ray Machine

Hello. My name is the X-ray machine, and I have a very special superpower. I can see inside things without ever opening them up. It is like having magic eyes. I love to look at the strong bones inside you, from your tippy-toes to the top of your head. I am a friendly machine, and I help doctors see if you are healthy and strong. I am a helpful friend who loves to take special pictures.

My birthday was a long, long time ago, on November 8th, 1895. A very smart and curious man named Wilhelm Röntgen was working in his lab late at night. Suddenly, he saw a mysterious, shimmery green glow. He did not know what it was, so he called my special light an ‘X’-ray, because ‘X’ is for mysteries. He was so excited. He asked his wife, Anna, to put her hand in front of my light. Click. I took my very first picture. It showed all the little bones in her hand and the shiny ring on her finger. It was amazing.

Today, I am a very busy helper for doctors and dentists. If you ever fall down and get a big boo-boo, doctors use me to take a picture of your bones. I can see if a bone is broken so the doctor knows exactly how to help it get better. Dentists use me too, to peek at your little teeth and make sure they are strong and happy. I don't hurt at all. I am just a big camera that loves helping you stay healthy and strong.