SETI 2024 - Exclusive Science Cruises with Swan Hellenic

THE SETI INSTITUTE

Have you ever wondered about extra-terrestrial life? You’re not on your own if you have: the SETI Institute is a space and earth science research organization, and part of their work is looking for forms of life within and beyond our solar system! The SETI Institute also supports other organizations, including NASA and the National Science Foundation, in answering some of humanity’s most profound scientific questions.

“The SETI Institute’s work brings humanity’s relationship with our planet, our solar system and the Universe beyond into focus.”

Bill Diamond, President and CEO of the SETI Institute

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LOOKING FOR LIFE

Exclusive presentations about the SETI Institute explorations of the Earth and beyond.

A GROWING SEARCH

Unique demonstrations of the special SETI Institute equipment installed on board.

MEET THE SCIENTISTS

Have the rare chance to chat with these world-renowned scientific experts.

LIFE BEYOND EARTH

In our partnership with the SETI Institute, we aim to provide you with expert insights into the fascinating world of astronomy, astrophysics, astrobiology and planetary science – and the ongoing quest to find other forms of life within and beyond our solar system.

“ We’re delighted with the opportunity to have our scientists and thought leaders interact with

the curious minded adventurers who explore with Swan Hellenic ”

Bill Diamond, President and CEO of the SETI Institute

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MEET OUR SPEAKERS

Steve Croft

SETI Institute Adjunct Senior Astronomer

Dr. Steve Croft is an astrophysicist focused on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) with roles at the SETI Institute, Oxford, and UC Berkeley, where he directs undergraduate research at the SETI Research Center. As Project Scientist, he uses the Green Bank Telescope to seek signs of alien technology. Widely published and a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, Croft has lectured globally and served on NASA and NSF panels. Originally from England, he earned his PhD at Oxford and moved to Berkeley in 2007. He lives in Oakland with his wife, Lori, and their dog, Laika.

SH Vega, 20-30 August, 2025

Rosalba Bonaccorsi

SETI Institute Research Scientist

Dr. Rosalba Bonaccorsi is a Research Scientist at the SETI Institute and NASA Ames, specializing in astrobiology and the study of extreme life in planetary-like environments. With a Ph.D. from the University of Trieste, she has researched Antarctic marine sediments and deep subsurface biospheres. Rosalba has worked with international education organizations since 1989 and led science outreach as part of NASA’s Spaceward Bound expeditions. Her research on life indicators supports Mars missions, and her recent focus includes the ocean worlds of Enceladus and Europa, conducting simulations to aid future life-detection missions in these icy environments.

SH Vega, 15-30 September, 2025

Pamela Harman

SETI Institute Director of Education

Dr. Harman, originally trained as a civil engineer, transitioned from managing engineering projects to teaching high school science and math, where she developed a passion for engaging science presentations. Now, as the SETI Institute’s Director of Education, she leads educational programs, serves as a Principal and Co-Investigator, and has given hundreds of workshops. She connects undergraduates with mentors at SETI and contributes to SETI's annual awards panels. Passionate about enhancing STEM education, she focuses on creating meaningful learning and career opportunities for future scientists and explorers.

SH Vega, 22 May -2 June, 2025

Madhulika Guhathakurta

SETI Institute NASA Heliophysics Science Division

Lika Guhathakurta has devoted her career to studying the Sun’s mysteries, from chasing solar eclipses to exploring auroras. Known as “The Sheliophysicist,” her journey has paralleled three solar cycles, deepening her connection to our star. As a lead scientist at NASA, Lika investigates how the Sun’s behavior affects Earth, enhancing our understanding of space weather and solar phenomena. Through her website, "The Sheliophysicist," and her talks, she inspires others to explore the Sun’s beauty and impact, encouraging everyone to "look up and find your answers."

SH Vega, 2-13 June, 2025

Derek Kozel

SETI Institute GNU Radio Project

Derek is the Principal Investigator for the GNU Radio project, leading the development of the world's most widely used open-source tool for radio systems. His research at Carnegie Mellon and Cardiff University involves machine learning and improving the accessibility of cutting-edge engineering to individuals and organizations alike.

SH Diana, 1-13 June, 2025

Dana Backman

SETI Institute NASA Astronomy Program

Dana Backman, originally from Hartford, Conn., earned his Ph.D. in astrophysics from the University of Hawai`i, specializing in star and planet formation. His career includes eight observing trips to Chile and 12 years as a physics and astronomy professor at Franklin & Marshall College. Dana has also taught at Santa Clara University and Stanford. He served as Director of Education and Outreach for NASA's SOFIA mission (2003–2016) and is now Principal Investigator for the NASA Astronomy Activation Ambassadors program at the SETI Institute. He is also the coauthor of five college-level introductory textbooks published by Cengage Learning.

SH Vega, 27 March - 5 April, 2025

Joe Spitale

SETI Institute Senior Scientist

Dr. Spitale earned his B.S. in physics from Caltech and a Ph.D. in Planetary Science and Applied Mathematics from the University of Arizona. Specializing in orbital dynamics and icy satellites, he contributed to the Galileo and Cassini missions. Currently, he works with the Ring-Moon Systems node of the Planetary Data System at the SETI Institute, focusing on Saturn’s rings and the ocean-bearing moon Enceladus. As an adjunct professor at the University of Arizona, he has taught courses in Astrobiology, Climate Change, and Field Geology.

SH Vega, 31 July - 10 August, 2025

Bill Diamond

SETI Institute President and CEO

Bill Diamond, a Silicon Valley technology veteran, is President and CEO of the SETI Institute, a nonprofit in Mountain View focused on astrophysics, astrobiology, and the search for life in the universe. With over 30 years’ experience in laser photonics, optical networks, and semiconductor tech, he has held executive roles at companies like Oclaro, Wave Splitter, Denselight, and Xradia (now Zeiss). Diamond holds a B.A. in physics and an MBA from Georgetown, where he was an advisory board member. He also serves on the Board of the Bay Area Science and Innovation Council and is active in several scientific organizations.

SH Vega, 10-20 August, 2025

Pascal Lee

SETI Institute Senior Planetary Specialist

Dr. Pascal Lee, a planetary scientist with the SETI Institute, Mars Institute, and NASA Ames, is also a professor at Kepler Space University. He studied physics at the University of Paris-Sorbonne, earned an M.E. from Polytech-Sorbonne, and completed his MS and PhD at Cornell University as Carl Sagan’s last T.A. His research focuses on the Moon, Mars, and human exploration. He co-discovered Noctis Volcano and a glacier on Mars. Pascal has led over 30 polar expeditions, wintered 402 days in Antarctica, and led the Northwest Passage Drive Expedition, inspiring the award-winning film Passage to Mars.

SH Vega, 14 November - 1 December, 2025