The Search for Extraterrestrial Life 
and Implications for Our Future

What is life and how does it begin?  What makes a planet or moon habitable?  Is
there life on Mars or elsewhere in the solar system?  How can life be recognized
on distant worlds?  Is it likely to be microbial, more biologically complex -- or
even intelligent?  What would such a discovery mean for life here on Earth? The
new science of astrobiology is seeking evidence of alien life.  He describes the
startling discoveries being made in astrobiology, an intriguing new field that
blends astronomy, biology, and geology to explore the possibility of life on
other planets.   Is there really life beyond Earth?  Bennett goes beyond the 
usual conspiracy theories and abduction stories to uncover the true ways that the 
search for extraterrestrial life is helping bridge the divide that sometimes exists 
between science and religion, defuse public rancor over the teaching of evolution, 
and quiet the debate over global warming.  He provides an insider's perspective on
how SETI conducts its searches and addresses the ongoing debates about what 
should happen and how we should react if and when contact is made. He will also 
discuss why the possibility of life beyond Earth has profound implications to the 
future of our species, even in the unlikely event that we are alone in the universe. 
     Children are welcome.  Those over about age 10 should be able to understand 
most of the talk, and younger children will still enjoy the pictures. 
Note: This talk is based on Dr. Bennett's forthcoming new book Beyond UFOs 
(Princeton U Press, 2008).  He is also the author of Life in the Universe.
See his website for more details.

Dr. Bennett will also give a talk about teaching science at 4pm 
in the planetarium. All interested in science education are welcome.