Drake Awards 2026

Join the SETI Institute’s premier space science celebration as we honor pioneering researchers advancing the search for life beyond Earth!

Honoring Excellence in SETI & Astrobiology

The Drake Awards is the SETI Institute’s premier celebration of bold ideas, transformative discovery, and humanity’s enduring question: Are we alone in the universe?

This signature evening brings together scientists, industry leaders, STEM students, and space enthusiasts for an unforgettable night to celebrate discovery, spark new ideas, and honor the pioneers shaping the future of astrobiology and the search for life beyond Earth.

Engage: Connect with leading voices in SETI, astrobiology, planetary science, and more.

Experience: Enjoy an elegant reception and gala dinner hosted by two leading voices in science communication.

Inspire: Meet the next generation of groundbreaking scientists driving the future of research and discovery.

We are grateful for our sponsors: Amaresh Kollipara, Elizebeth Varghese & Matthew Veedon, Wendi Zhang & Jason Slupeiks, TIFF Advisory, Wealthspire Retirement Advisory & NFP, an Aon company, Hum Lab, Sanjeet Dutta & Foley & Lardner LLP, Paul Aiello & Caroline Chiu, Dan Lankford, and Nathalie Cabrol.