Are We Alone? The Search for Life in the Universe - A Joint CCLA and Wharton Alumni Club Event - Sat 4/26 - 1PM PT

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

Time:

1:00pm arrive, mix and mingle, enjoy lunch

1:30pm - 1:45pm - begin presentation (approx 30-40min)

1:45pm - 2:15pm - Q&A

Location: Blank Spaces Culver City (9415 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232)

Parking: Nearest is Cardiff Parking Garage (3846 Cardiff Avenue, Culver City, CA 90232) **  This will be a paid parking garage not covered under the program fee.  Hourly Rates: 0-1 Free / 2.5 - 3 hrs = $4.00**. Otherwise metered street parking is available.

Cost: $22/person members

          $30/person non-members

UCLA Professor, Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences
UCLA Professor, Physics and Astronomy

Join Jean-Luc Margot (’99 PhD, Astronomy) for an insightful presentation to explore the search for extraterrestrial life. Jean-Luc is a professor at UCLA in the Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences and the Department of Physics and Astronomy.  This talk will delve into the fundamental question: Are we alone in the universe? We will examine what makes our universe conducive to life, some of the important ingredients for life, and the factors that make a planet habitable. The discussion will highlight the motivations behind humanity’s quest to discover extraterrestrial life and provide an in-depth look at the major search techniques, weighing their strengths and limitations. The presentation will conclude with insights into ongoing SETI research, including student contributions and opportunities for participatory science. A simple catered lunch will be provided as we gather for this thought-provoking session, offering a compelling look into the ongoing efforts in the search for life beyond Earth. Don't miss this fascinating discussion!