New SETI Tool Expands the Search for Intelligent Life in the Universe

A new software at SETI Institute will help astronomers comb the stars for signs of technological intelligence beyond Earth.

By Conor Feehly
Aug 8, 2023 6:00 PM
The Very Large Array radio astronomy observatory in New Mexico
(Credit: Baiterek Media/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Are we alone in the universe? There are good reasons to suspect that we have company.

After all, the universe is exceptionally large, with possibly billions of Earth-like planets in our Milky Way galaxy, which is but one of trillions of galaxies in the universe.

The ingredients for life, as far as we know, are common. And humans on Earth have proven life is capable of evolving to a point of technological complexity which could make our presence visible to anyone out there looking.

But could we recognize such a signal if it floated past our planet? Researchers are deploying new technology to aid us in that ongoing search.

The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.