A Short Class on Aliens in Science and Science Fiction - Where Do We Stand in our Search for Intelligent Life Out There?

Wednesdays from 3 to 5 pm (Sep. 30 - Nov. 4, 2026). This is a 6 session class.

Either via Zoom or in Person in the Humanities Building at SF State

Space is Limited: Register Early 

Few areas of astronomy excite our imaginations as much as the search for alien life, out among the stars. It is a staple of science fiction stories and films, but recently it has also become a legitimate branch of scientific inquiry. In this non-technical class, we will take a look at why astronomers are more optimistic than ever that there must be life beyond the Earth, what intriguing experiments we are undertaking around the world to find or communicate with such life, and what we propose to do if we do find “them.” We’ll also look at some of the most imaginative science and science-fiction ideas about what such aliens will be like, why, despite recent media flurries, UFO stories have nothing to offer us, and what some legal and diplomatic concerns are about getting in touch with aliens. (No background in science will be required or assumed.) 

Three easy steps to register:

1. Sign in or create a free account at: https://www.campusce.net/sfsu/account/signin.aspx
2. Register for the in-person class at:

https://www.campusce.net/sfsu/course/course.aspx?C=1379&pc=138&mc=0&sc=0

or for the Zoom class at:

https://www.campusce.net/sfsu/course/course.aspx?C=1380&pc=138&mc=0&sc=0

3. If you do not yet have an Annual Membership (a modest fee) you will need to add one to your cart when you select the class. The Annual Membership is one of the choices in the catalog at the bottom, or at this link:

https://www.campusce.net/sfsu/course/course.aspx?catId=14