Interstellar

Simulations show advanced alien societies struggle to survive climate crisis

Oct. 8, 2024, 1:28 p.m. • Interesting Engineering • (3 Minute Read)

In a recent study, simulations show how advanced alien societies may struggle to survive a climate crisis caused by their own technological advancements. The research, which is currently undergoing peer review, suggests that even if extraterrestrial civilizations rely on renewable energy, their insatiable power demand could generate enough heat to make their planets uninhabitable within 1,000 years. This unsettling possibility arises from the second law of thermodynamics, indicating that energy systems must release waste heat. The study also poses a significant challenge for astrobiologists in the search for alien civilizations as the window for detecting them during their technological advancement may be narrow. However, the study suggests that civilizations could potentially survive for billions of years by regulating their growth and adopting sustainable practices.

Technosignatures: Did WISE Detect Dyson Spheres/Structures Around Gaia-2MASS-selected Stars?

Oct. 1, 2024, 3:34 p.m. • Astrobiology News • (3 Minute Read)

Researchers' use of the WISE all-sky catalogue of 500 million mid-infrared (IR) objects has raised questions about the potential detection of "technostructures," such as Dyson spheres/structures, around Gaia-2MASS-selected stars. While there has been speculation about the ability of WISE to identify extrasolar devices built by advanced civilizations, concerns about the potential noise in the large sample of Gaia-detected stars and the possibility of confusion with the emission from dusty background galaxies have been raised. A recent claim of seven potential Dyson Spheres/Structures in a publication was met with a rebuttal, and the detectability of these structures is also questioned due to potential countermeasures by advanced civilizations. The relevance of WISE-detected galaxies is discussed in more detail, leading to a suggested limit on the number and lifetime of such structures in the region observed by Gaia. Further research and discussion on this topic are ongoing, as scientists grapple with the challenges of distinguishing potential technosignatures from natural phenomena.

UFO Hunters Believe This Metal Shard Could Be Alien Technology--So They Sent It to a National Lab

Sept. 16, 2024, 9:36 p.m. • Popular Mechanics • (4 Minute Read)

The metal shard believed by UFO hunters to potentially be alien technology has been sent to a national lab for analysis. The mysterious specimen, linked to the 1947 Roswell incident, showed properties that suggested an extraterrestrial origin. However, the analysis conducted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) revealed terrestrial isotopic signatures of magnesium and lead in the metal, ruling out alien biosignatures. The crystalline structure of the magnesium was found to be similar to alloys made on Earth, refuting claims of it being an alien waveguide. Although the exact origin of the sample remains unknown, all indications point to it belonging to Earth. The findings have sparked further questions and discussion within the UFO enthusiast community.

Imagining Earth 1,000 Years from Now: How Our Future Could Help Find Alien Civilizations

Sept. 16, 2024, 5:23 p.m. • AlienLife.net • (5 Minute Read)

A recent study explores ten possible scenarios for Earth’s future over the next 1,000 years, examining how the technosphere—human-made systems and technology—might evolve. These projections range from stable, zero-growth societies to dystopian collapses and rapid AI-driven expansion across the solar system. The study highlights potential "technosignatures" that could be detectable from space, such as pollution, artificial lighting, or even Dyson sphere-like structures. The research challenges the idea of continuous technological growth, suggesting that sustainable, zero-growth civilizations may be more common, with important implications for the search for extraterrestrial life.

A Radio Technosignature Search Of TRAPPIST-1 With The Allen Telescope Array

Sept. 16, 2024, 3:27 p.m. • Astrobiology News • (4 Minute Read)

In a recent study, researchers used the Allen Telescope Array to conduct a radio technosignature search of the TRAPPIST-1 system, targeting potential signals from extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI). The study focused on observing planet-planet occultations (PPOs) within the system, as these events could present an opportunity to detect radio transmissions from ETIs. By analyzing 28 hours of data, the researchers identified 7 possible PPO events and processed the signals using a filtering pipeline, ultimately identifying 11,127 candidate signals. However, no signals of non-human origin were detected, leading the researchers to calculate upper limits for potential ETI signals. The study marks the longest single-target radio SETI search of TRAPPIST-1 to date. This research adds valuable insight into ongoing efforts to detect technosignatures beyond Earth.

We can find aliens if we imagine ourselves in the future

Sept. 14, 2024, 12:03 p.m. • The Universe. Space. Tech • (3 Minute Read)

In a recently published paper, experts from the Blue Marble Space Institute of Science and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center explore the idea of searching for technosignatures to find alien civilizations. The researchers focus on understanding our possible future, using the concept of a "technosphere," an area modified by technology that can leave traces visible even at cosmic distances. They identified 10 scenarios for humanity's future, modeling each scenario's impact on the world around them. Their findings suggest that most advanced alien civilizations would likely be more stealthy and energetically smeared between stars and planets, challenging the traditional focus on megastructures and unlimited power. This research offers valuable insight for the continued pursuit of discovering extraterrestrial life.

Will Contact With Non-Human Intelligence Involve Aliens or AI?

July 4, 2024, 2:29 p.m. • The Debrief • (3 Minute Read)

The article "Will Contact With Non-Human Intelligence Involve Aliens or AI?" discusses the potential encounter with non-human intelligence, considering the possibility of encountering artificial intelligence (AI) or extraterrestrial technologies. Avi Loeb, head of the Galileo Project, suggests that AI systems could represent an "alien" intelligence due to their material differences from the human brain. The article explores the limitations and similarities between AI and human intelligence, as well as the potential existence of interstellar probes in our solar system. It also emphasizes the challenges and unknowns in dealing with alien intelligence, highlighting the need for further exploration and research.

Searching for Signs of Advanced Civilizations: Interstellar Detectives Trace Alien Terraforming

July 2, 2024, 2:27 a.m. • SciTechDaily • (5 Minute Read)

In a quest to uncover extraterrestrial life, researchers have identified specific potent greenhouse gases that could indicate advanced alien civilizations are actively terraforming distant planets. Detecting gases like fluorinated methane and ethane on distant exoplanets could serve as technosignatures of sophisticated interstellar engineering. Astronomers can trace these gases using space telescopes such as the James Webb to find evidence of alien civilizations. The study, led by Edward Schwieterman of the University of California, Riverside, proposes five gases used in industrial applications as potential terraforming gases, which could be detectable in the atmospheres of planets outside our solar system. These gases, if found, could indicate the presence of intelligent, technology-using life forms. The research presents a promising approach to discovering signs of advanced civilizations in the universe using existing and future space-based telescopes.

Geoscientists Dig Into Why We May Be Alone In The Milky Way (Tectonics) - Astrobiology

July 2, 2024, 1:52 a.m. • Astrobiology News • (5 Minute Read)

In a recent study published in Nature's Scientific Reports, University of Texas at Dallas geoscientists, led by Dr. Robert Stern and Dr. Taras Gerya, have proposed a geological explanation for the scarcity of conclusive evidence for advanced extraterrestrial (ET) civilizations. Their research suggests that the presence of oceans, continents, and long-term plate tectonics on life-bearing planets is crucial for the evolution of active, communicative civilizations. The team revised the famous Drake equation to account for the necessity of these geological factors and estimated that the fraction of exoplanets with the optimal conditions for the emergence of intelligent life may be much smaller than previously thought, thus resolving the Fermi paradox. The findings suggest that favorable planetary conditions for the development of intelligent life in the Milky Way are extremely rare, shedding light on why conclusive evidence of extraterrestrial civilizations has not been found. This research has significant implications for astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Looking for atmospheres in the ultimate quest for extraterrestrial life

June 26, 2024, 8:49 p.m. • Phys.org • (5 Minute Read)

In the ultimate quest for extraterrestrial life, astronomer Sebastian Zieba from Leiden University has been studying small rocky exoplanets using data from the James Webb Space Telescope. Although no signs of alien life have been found yet, Zieba's research is valuable for future observations. By measuring the temperature and emission spectra of exoplanets like K2-141 b and TRAPPIST-1 c, Zieba aims to detect possible atmospheres, which could indicate the potential for hosting life. Despite not detecting any atmosphere around one of the observed exoplanets, Zieba asserts that there is always something to learn for future observations. Zieba also expressed excitement about the prospects of working with the JWST in the future and other upcoming projects such as the Extremely Large Telescope in Chile and the Habitable Worlds Observatory, which could provide further insights into the atmospheres of exoplanets.

'Dyson spheres' were theorized as a way to detect alien life. Scientists say they've found potential evidence

June 13, 2024, 11 a.m. • CNN • (8 Minute Read)

Scientists have theorized about the existence of "Dyson spheres" as a potential method for detecting alien life for many years. These hypothetical megastructures, first proposed by Freeman Dyson in the 1960s, were thought to harness all the energy produced by a star and give off detectable waste heat in the form of infrared radiation. A recent study examining 5 million stars in the Milky Way galaxy has identified seven candidate stars that could potentially be hosting Dyson spheres. While the findings are attracting scrutiny and alternate theories, the researchers caution that there is no conclusive evidence that these stars have Dyson spheres around them. Further research is needed to confirm the presence of these hypothetical megastructures, and the James Webb Space Telescope may provide additional information in the future. If Dyson spheres do exist, their potential uses are far beyond humanity's current technological capabilities, making their existence likely to be very rare.

SETI Institute Launches Groundbreaking Technosignature Science and Technology - Astrobiology

June 12, 2024, 6:30 p.m. • Astrobiology News • (3 Minute Read)

The SETI Institute has launched a pioneering grants program to advance technosignature science, aiming to support innovative research addressing critical observational, theoretical, and technical questions in the search for extraterrestrial technology. At the center of this groundbreaking endeavor is the Allen Telescope Array (ATA), renowned for its capabilities in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The ATA's advanced technology and strategic design make it a pivotal tool in detecting potential technosignatures, solidifying its position as a leading asset in this scientific frontier. The Technosignature Science and Technology Grants Program invites applications from Principal Investigators in diverse research focus areas. The application deadline for the 2024 grants is July 15, 2024, with successful applicants notified by August 5, 2024. For more details, interested researchers can access information and instructions on the program's website. The SETI Institute, established in 1984, is a non-profit research and education organization dedicated to leading humanity's quest to understand the origins and prevalence of life and intelligence in the universe and sharing that knowledge with the world.

At Contact in the Desert, 'Coachella for UFOs,' a once-fringe topic takes the main stage

June 4, 2024, 2:47 p.m. • Los Angeles Times • (10 Minute Read)

The annual event "Contact in the Desert," once considered a fringe topic, has now gained mainstream attention. The convention, held at the Renaissance Esmeralda resort, attracted over two thousand attendees who shared their similar encounters and beliefs related to UFOs. What was once a niche interest has become a topic of significant interest for governments, the military, media, and entertainment. With the highest levels of government showing interest in UFOs, the culture around UFOs and esoteric spirituality is now gaining significance in influencing laws and opening minds. While there is growing interest in UFOs, there is also the risk of belief reinforcement leading to fringe ideas. The convention attracted a diverse audience, from those with a general curiosity to diehard believers claiming to have experienced encounters with aliens. The event featured a range of discussions, from academic inquiries to starstruck panels, attracting individuals from different walks of life, including actors, and fans of the esoteric and occult. As interest in UFOs gains greater mainstream acceptance, there is a debate about whether the culture around UFOs should shift toward more scientific inquiry or cater to its most devoted followers. The convention also highlighted the risks of navigating such a scene, including the potential for embarrassment when erroneous claims are made. Overall, the event underscored the evolving significance of UFOs and the need for serious scientific inquiry in this field.

Spruce Pine Alien Festival returns this weekend

June 4, 2024, 2:28 a.m. • Avery Journal Times • (1 Minute Read)

The Spruce Pine Alien Festival is returning this weekend, with the downtown streets of Spruce Pine set to be filled with extraterrestrial enthusiasts on Saturday, June 8. The festival, now in its third year, promises an AlienXpo speaker conference and a lineup of exciting events, drawing in more than 20,000 UFO and alien fans. With over 175 artists and crafters, alien merchandise, and a free Alien Music Festival featuring a variety of musical acts, the festival offers something for everyone. Additionally, the festival hosts an Area 51 Costume Contest, a Children’s Close Encounter Zone, and the AlienXpo Conference, featuring notable speakers like Mike Bara from "Ancient Aliens". Tickets for the conference and further information are available on the festival's website. Spruce Pine Alien Festival is sure to be an interstellar experience for all attendees.

Scientists recreate conditions of Saturnian moon in a lab -- and it could help us find alien life

May 29, 2024, 1 p.m. • Salon • (3 Minute Read)

Scientists have recreated conditions of Saturn's moon Enceladus in a lab, leading to a potential breakthrough in the search for alien life. After discovering organic compounds in blocks of ice from Enceladus, researchers simulated conditions similar to those on the moon in German research laboratories. Through this process, they gained insight into how explorers can identify potential extraterrestrial life on Enceladus. The study's lead author, Nozair Khawaja, stated that their findings suggest biosignatures can be identified in future data from Enceladus. These groundbreaking experiments may aid in the detection of biosignatures in space through space-based mass spectrometers, such as Cassini's Cosmic Dust Analyzer. This research adds significant support to identifying potential extraterrestrial life in the universe.

What links UFOs, AI and religious encounters with non-human intelligence

May 22, 2024, 9:30 a.m. • Salon • (7 Minute Read)

The news story explores the intertwining of UFO encounters, artificial intelligence, and religious experiences with non-human intelligence. Author and religious scholar D.W. Pasulka challenges the conventional perception of UFO experiences being solely linked to extraterrestrial visitations, discussing a broader context of encounters with non-human intelligences throughout history. Pasulka emphasizes the transformative nature of UFO encounters and the emergence of new religious movements influenced by these experiences within the context of modern technological infrastructure. The article delves into the implications of these phenomena on spirituality, science, and technology, and discusses potential paradigm shifts and apocalyptic predictions. Pasulka's insights provide a thought-provoking perspective on the evolving relationship between human consciousness, technology, and non-human intelligence.

Cutting-Edge AI Program "CosmoAgent" Simulates First Contact With Alien Civilizations

May 21, 2024, 11:54 a.m. • The Debrief • (4 Minute Read)

An international team of researchers has developed "CosmoAgent," an innovative AI framework that simulates interactions between humans and extraterrestrial civilizations. The program assesses the potential risks and benefits of peaceful coexistence between different civilizations, modeling various ethical paradigms and decision-making processes. Inspired by the cautionary advice of Dr. Stephen Hawking, the researchers aim to explore the consequences of human policies towards alien life and develop strategies to mitigate risks associated with first contact scenarios. With the release of CosmoAgent's code and datasets, the model could provide a foundation for future studies and aid in forecasting and understanding the distinct characteristics of intelligent alien civilizations. This research marks a pivotal advancement in computational social science, enabling simulations of complex interactions within civilizations and offering a fresh perspective for astronomers and philosophers.

JWST Explores Possible Sign of Alien Life on Exoplanet K2-18 b

May 20, 2024, 6:30 p.m. • Syfy • (4 Minute Read)

In a recent study, doubts have been raised about the detection of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) on the exoplanet K2-18 b by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The planet, located 120 light-years away, has long been of interest due to its potential habitability. Initial readings suggested the presence of DMS, a compound typically produced by living organisms on Earth, hinting at the possibility of alien life. However, a new study from the University of California, Riverside has cast uncertainty on this detection, suggesting that DMS might not accumulate to detectable levels in the planet's hydrogen-based atmosphere. Despite these doubts, researchers maintain that the possibility of biosignatures on K2-18 b remains, and upcoming observations by JWST are still anticipated to provide further insights. As the search for alien life continues, scientists remain eager to uncover more about these distant worlds.

Artificial Superintelligence Could Doom Humanity and Explain We Haven't Found Alien Civilizations, Proposes New ...

May 14, 2024, 12:10 p.m. • The Debrief • (4 Minute Read)

In a recent paper, Dr. Michael Garrett, a professor of radio astronomy at Leiden University, proposes a controversial theory regarding the absence of detectable advanced alien civilizations in the universe. He suggests that the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and the potential emergence of artificial superintelligence could act as a "Great Filter," drastically reducing the lifespan of technological civilizations to a mere 200 years. This theory, if true, could help explain the Fermi Paradox and raise concerns about the longevity of humanity. Dr. Garrett highlights the urgent need for comprehensive global regulations on AI development to mitigate existential risks and ensure the longevity of civilizations.

A Fresh Take On The Search for Extraterrestrial Life - Astrobiology

May 12, 2024, 8:16 p.m. • Astrobiology News • (3 Minute Read)

In the search for extraterrestrial life, researchers at the University of Chicago Marine Biology Laboratory have taken a fresh approach by studying purple bacteria as potential biosignatures for detecting life on other planets. Lead author Ligia F. Coelho, a postdoctoral associate at the Carl Sagan Institute at Cornell University, collaborated with colleagues to analyze the spectral signatures of diverse purple bacteria and model how exoplanets would appear if covered in these organisms. The study, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, challenges the conventional focus on single, green photosynthetic species and offers a new perspective on the potential diversity of microbial life on other planets. This innovative approach underscores the importance of considering a wider range of microbial communities in the search for extraterrestrial life.