SETI Institute entrance. The aim of the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) Institute, Mountain View, California, USA, is to explore, understand, and explain the origin, nature and prevalence of life in the Universe. It is a non-profit, private organisation that employs over 100 scientists, educators and support staff. The institute comprises three centres, the Center for SETI Research, the Carl Sagan Center for the Study of Life in the Universe, and the Center for Education and Public Outreach. Founded in 1984, it is based at 189 Bernardo Ave. Photographed in 2010.