Relative identifiability of analog vs prime extraterrestrial signals

[Loren Booda]

SETI's search for alien contact includes detecting intelligent analog transmissions and also those carrying sequences of prime numbers signifying life elsewhere in the Galaxy.

What is the relative ease with which SETI can discern rational analog vs prime number transmissions? Is it a waste of time to search for one over the other? There is no known natural source which generates prime numbers, and analog signals experience more interference from electromagnetic physical phenomena.

Would not the very quality of premeditated prime numbers as foriegn to naturally occurring electromagnetism create comparative difficulty in demodulating a given signal?

 

[Loren Booda]

Thanks, Sensei, but I couln't find anything there about the detection of primes specifically, or how that compares to analog/digital monitoring.

 

[tacman]

The relative identifiability of analog vs prime extraterrestrial signals is a complex topic that requires careful consideration. While it is true that SETI's search for alien contact includes detecting both analog and prime number transmissions, it is not accurate to say that one is more easily discernible than the other.

Firstly, it is important to note that the concept of "ease" in identifying these signals is subjective and can vary depending on the technology and methods used by SETI researchers. Additionally, the level of difficulty in identifying a signal can also depend on the characteristics of the signal itself, such as its strength, frequency, and complexity.

In terms of prime number transmissions, while it is true that there are no known natural sources that generate prime numbers, it is also important to consider that these numbers have been used by humans for centuries and are a fundamental concept in mathematics. Therefore, it is possible that an advanced extraterrestrial civilization may also use prime numbers as a means of communication.

On the other hand, analog signals can experience more interference from electromagnetic physical phenomena, making it more challenging to discern them from natural sources. However, advancements in technology and signal processing techniques can greatly improve the ability to filter out this interference and identify potential alien signals.

In conclusion, it is not accurate to say that one type of signal is more easily identifiable than the other. Both analog and prime number transmissions present their own challenges and require careful consideration and analysis. It would not be a waste of time to search for one over the other, as both types of signals could potentially lead to the discovery of extraterrestrial life.