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Scientists from the SETI project, using reverse modeling techniques, investigated whether hypothetical extraterrestrial civilizations could detect Earth and its intelligent inhabitants based on modern technosignatures.
The results of a study published in Astronomical Journal, indicate that the most prominent signals, which can be detected from a distance of up to 12 light-years, are radio waves from planetary radars such as the Arecibo Observatory. Also considered important man-made markers are atmospheric traces of human activity, in particular elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide, which, according to data from the James Webb Space Telescope and the Habitable Worlds Observatory, can be detected at a distance of 000 light-years.
The closer potential explorers got to Earth, the more signs of civilization they could detect: city lights, heat islands, lasers, and orbiting satellites.
– explains Macy Houston from the University of California, Berkeley, emphasizing that this approach allows us to better evaluate methods for searching for extraterrestrial intelligence.
SETI uses a variety of approaches to detect intelligent life, including analyzing radio signals and laser pulses that may indicate telecommunications technology. Researchers also focus on studying the composition of exoplanet atmospheres in habitable zones, hoping to find signs of biological or industrial activity.
She emphasizes that their work not only helps to identify possible civilizations in the Universe, but also makes us think about the consequences of human activity for the environment, because atmospheric pollution can be one of the key signs of technological activity.
SETI Scientists Find Out What Signals Earth Gives Off to Extraterrestrial Civilizations appeared first on Curiosity.
