Exploring Transient Radio Signals: Could They Be ET?

In summary, the paper 'Provocative radio transients and base rate bias: a Bayesian argument for conservatism' discusses the search for extraterrestrial intelligence through transient radio signals. The author argues for a more conservative approach and the need for a large data set to distinguish between natural phenomena and potential signs of advanced civilizations. The paper also highlights the importance of open-mindedness and the role of dreamers in expanding our understanding of life beyond Earth.
  • #1
Chronos
Science Advisor
Gold Member
11,440
750
This paper 'Provocative radio transients and base rate bias: a Bayesian argument for conservatism', http://arxiv.org/abs/1211.7338, discusses transient radio signals as possible signs of extraterrestrial intelligence. I knew of the 'WOW' signal, but, was unaware of other similar detection events.
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
I thought the "Conclusions" section of the paper was most instructive:

"Conclusions

As SETI techniques begin to turn away from the search for purposefully Earth-directed signals of enduring duration and more toward finding the ephemeral leakage associated with the complex business of maintaining an interstellar civilization, large or small, then we must come to terms with the fact that most if not all of our detections will be one of a kind…never to repeat with exactly the same parametric characteristics or in the same position in the sky. With this in mind it becomes particularly important to collect a large data set of provocative (i.e., possibly indicative of extraterrestrial intelligence) radio transients through a long stare strategy in order to build up a compelling case that they cannot all be explained by natural phenomena in much the same way the dedicated scientists at CERN used their diligence and perseverance to recently claim the Higgs Boson exists to an extremely high degree of confidence. In consideration of this it is important to realize that the finest mathematical sieve will always gather up far more straw from the haystack than it does those very special needles."

It seems that without dreamers like this we may be destined to only know life here on Earth forever.

Cheers,
Bobbywhy
 
Last edited:

1. What are transient radio signals?

Transient radio signals are brief bursts of radio frequency energy that are detected by radio telescopes. These signals can last for just a few milliseconds or up to a few seconds.

2. How are transient radio signals detected?

Transient radio signals are detected by radio telescopes, which are large dishes that collect and amplify radio waves from space. These telescopes are equipped with sophisticated instruments that can detect and analyze the signals.

3. What could cause transient radio signals?

There are a variety of natural and man-made sources that could potentially cause transient radio signals. Some possible sources include cosmic events such as supernovae or neutron star mergers, as well as signals from other advanced civilizations in the universe.

4. Why are scientists interested in exploring transient radio signals for signs of extraterrestrial life?

Exploring transient radio signals for signs of extraterrestrial life is a way to expand our understanding of the universe and potentially make contact with other intelligent beings. These signals could potentially contain information or messages from other civilizations, providing valuable insights into their technology and culture.

5. Have any transient radio signals been confirmed to be of extraterrestrial origin?

As of now, no transient radio signals have been confirmed to be of extraterrestrial origin. However, there have been some intriguing signals detected that have yet to be explained. Further research and exploration is needed to determine the true nature of these signals.

Similar threads

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
991
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
10
Views
10K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
19
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
679
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
4
Views
980
  • Quantum Interpretations and Foundations
4
Replies
138
Views
5K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
26
Views
6K
Back
Top