All About SETI

The acronym SETI stands for the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence, a theme common in many fictional works of film and literature, but has recently gained more realistic applications. More and more resources have been donated to the search for alien life. The task is arduous, but the endless possibilities of discovery keep people researching.

Because we are not able to physically visit the 100,000 light years of space in our galaxy, SETI projects rely on searching for transmissions from the other civilizations. For this daunting task to take place, we have to make several assumptions. First, we have to assume that humans are similar to the life forms on other planets, not exotic as many people might believe. Secondly, we must assume that the life forms will be carbon-based. The presence of liquid water is also an assumption of SETI. Finally, we must assume that life will only exist around a sun-like star, or a star similar to our own.

The SETI tasks are also hindered by our ignorance of alien life. Because we are unaware of what frequency the aliens might be using, our search will have to be throughout the entire radio spectrum. SETI researchers are also unsure how to receive the messages, as the modulation these life forms might be using remains a mystery.

Despite the difficulties in gaining knowledge beneficial to SETI, human kind remains fascinated by it. Jump into the world of extra-terrestrial life with the SETI articles and information on this page. Learn more about this intriguing quest with the online SETI articles below.