Introduction

The SETI program is an effort to detect communication or other signals sent by intelligent civilizations from other star systems. It has been active since 1960[1] and uses mostly radio astronomy. Many SETI organizations depend on donations to keep running. Therefore, it is important for them to make the public aware of their efforts. There are many text-based explanations of the SETI program, its philosophy, its method, what it hopes to accomplish. For example, Carl Sagan, a famous SETI advocate, presented his cast for the SETI program in "Can SETI Succeed"[8]. However, few of these explanations are supplemented with graphics. The purpose of this project is to develop graphical utilities to help SETI explain its efforts to the public. Such utilities could be used by SETI organizations for fundraising and public information activities. The project will avoid more technical aspects not needed for a basic understanding. Current data will not be discussed.