Thursday, May 28, 2026

Dr. Frank Drake in front of the Drake Equation painted on a bus. Credit: Seth Shostak.

Today we celebrate what would've been the 96th birthday of pioneering astronomer and SETI visionary Frank Drake, whose groundbreaking work helped shape humanity’s search for life beyond Earth. From launching Project Ozma, the first modern search for extraterrestrial intelligence, to developing the famous Drake Equation, Frank Drake transformed a once-speculative idea into a rigorous scientific endeavor. His curiosity, patience, and optimism inspired generations of scientists and continues to guide the SETI Institute’s mission today. On his birthday, we honor not only his remarkable scientific legacy, but also his enduring belief that humanity’s greatest discoveries may still lie among the stars.

We miss you Dr. Drake!

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