By 1994 Museum officials realized that, despite past care, the Star-Spangled Banner had weakened and required further conservation treatment to remain on public display. Conservation of the large and valuable flag would require several years and specialized equipment and staff. Before work began, conservators carefully planned and prototyped every step of the process. In December 1998, workers removed the flag from exhibition in Flag Hall. Conservators examined every inch of the flag, documented its condition, and carefully vacuumed it in preparation for its move into a new laboratory. Work on the flag began in the new lab in May 1999.  Back to top  Science of Preservation Meticulous study and planning preceded actual conservation work on the flag.  Moving the Flag Teams of museum conservators, curators, and other specialists were needed to move the flag into the conservation laboratory.  Conservation Lab A custom-designed laboratory protects the flag while allowing the public to view the conservators’ careful work.  Progress Report Track the progress of the preservation project from May 1999 to the present.