SETI Institute logo. The aim of the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) Institute, based in Mountain View, California, USA, is to explore, understand, and explain the nature and origin of the Universe. It is a non-profit, private organisation that employs over 100 scientists, educators and support staff dedicated to scientific research, education and public outreach. The institute comprises two centres, the Center for SETI Research and the Carl Sagan Center for the Study of Life in the Universe. It was founded in 1984.