“The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence” will offer viewers a free tour of the night sky.

The Kent State event takes place in the Planetarium in Smith Hall Room 108. Brett Ellman, associate physics professor will host the three showings on February 18, 19 and 25 at 8 p.m.

The show begins as a tour of the Ohio night sky, Ellman said, so viewers can see the constellations, planets and stars. Their tour continues through the universe, looking for life and learning about the recent searches for extraterrestrial life and what was found across the galaxy.

“It’s no longer science fiction,” Ellman said. “We can seriously look for other life.”

He said the audience would also learn about scientists’ attempts to communicate with whomever may be listening.

“It’s a perennial interest,” Ellman said. “People love talking about little green men from mars. Technology has developed as well, making the search a possibility, not just science fiction.”

Contact Samantha Pietra at [email protected].