Researcher to Discuss Extraterrestrials

Forget the fictionalized alien encounter in “Independence Day”--Ventura County residents have an opportunity to hear what scientists are really doing to find extraterrestrials.

Paul Shuch, who heads up the nonprofit Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence League, will talk tonight in Simi Valley about the search for signs of life smarter than a fossilized Martian bacterium.

Shuch is on leave from his teaching position at Pennsylvania College of Technology to spearhead the league’s efforts. The organization was formed to continue research into the search for non-earthlings after federal funding for the SETI project was eliminated in 1993.

Shuch’s appearance is aptly sponsored by the Simi Settlers Amateur Radio Club--SETI researchers scan the radio spectrum for signals that may originate from distant planets.

The talk begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Farmers Insurance Regional Office, 3041 Cochran St.

Cost is $3 at the door.