SETI AIR Newsletter - November 2024

The SETI Institute turns 40 this month! What began as a two-person project at the NASA Ames Research Center has now grown into a vibrant, independent research institute with over 100 scientists, all focused on answering the question “Are we alone in the universe?” Our “grants ninja” Debbie Koyler remembers working in our first office, housed in trailer T-191 at NASA Ames. Back then, Jill Tarter was the SETI Institute’s very first (and only) Principal Investigator. This year, Jill will receive the inaugural Tarter Prize for her outstanding, life-long contribution to SETI research at our fabulous space-themed anniversary party. Come and join us as we celebrate our extraordinary journey. Ticket info and more AIR program news are below.

Wishing you clear skies, 
Bettina

Welcome! Lucy Walker

We are delighted to welcome film director Lucy Walker to the SETI AIR program. Lucy is an Emmy-Winning, twice Oscar-nominated director known for her compelling documentaries. Her feature documentaries include Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa (Netflix), Bring Your Own Brigade (Paramount+), #5 in the New York Times Top Ten Best Films of 2021, critics' pick Buena Vista Social Club Adios, Emmy-winning The Crash Reel (HBO), Oscar-nominated Waste Land (PBS), Countdown to Zero, and Blindsight. Her first feature, Devil’s Playground (HBO), was nominated for three Emmys.

During her time with the SETI AIR program, Lucy is working on a sci-fi documentary about interspecies communication.

Read Bio

Join us for the SETI Institute’s 40th Anniversary

Join us for an unforgettable celebration in recognition of the SETI Institute's groundbreaking accomplishments over the past four decades.

Featured Events:

• Special recognition of Dr. Jill Tarter
• Lightning Talks featuring bold predictions and foresight
• Interactive “Show and Tell Booths” including SETI AIR Daniela de Paulis’ A Sign in Space project
• Live music from "Wasabi The Band" - Space Funk Future
• 40th Anniversary space-themed cocktails
• AI Alien Photo Booth – choose your avatar!

November 20, 2024, 6-9pm
Sharon Heights Golf and Country Club,
2900 Sand Hill Rd, Menlo Park, California 94025