For decades, the search for life on other planets has captivated the imaginations of writers, filmmakers, artists, and scientists. On Friday, May 5, the spring 2017 Star Party at the College of the Canyons Canyon Country campus will explore this topic while providing community members the opportunity to learn more about our vast universe.

Dr. Michael J. Malaska, a scientist with the Planetary Ices Group at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), will speak on the possibility of alien life in his talk “Astrobiology and the Search for Alien Life.”

“We are very excited to hear Dr. Malaska speak about this fascinating topic,” said Ryan Theule, vice president of the Canyon Country campus. “This fun and educational event has become a tradition in our community and we look forward to having another memorable evening under the stars.”

Malaska’s research program combines laboratory simulation, spacecraft remote sensing, and field geology to explore the processes that might be making caves, sinkholes and labyrinth terrains on Saturn’s giant moon Titan.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will include a variety of interactive displays and activities presented by college clubs and organizations.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to gaze at the stars through the multiple telescopes set up by local astronomy groups throughout the evening.

“The Star Party offers the community an opportunity to see our campus up close, interact with students and faculty from the science disciplines, and learn about space through guest speakers and telescope viewing,” said Anthony Michaelides, acting dean at the Canyon Country campus.

The spring 2017 Star Party will be held from 7:30 to 10 p.m. on Friday, May 5, at the Canyon Country campus.

Food and beverages will also be available for purchase on site.

For more details, visit www.canyons.edu/ccc.