The Drake Equation: Is there really other Life in the Universe?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Drake Equation, formulated by Frank Drake in the early 1960s, which estimates the number of extraterrestrial civilizations capable of communication. The equation incorporates variables such as the rate of star formation (R*), the fraction of stars with planets (fp), and the likelihood of life developing (fl). Participants express skepticism regarding the equation's utility, arguing that many variables are based on speculation rather than concrete data. The conversation also touches on the Rare Earth hypothesis and the limitations of current technology in detecting extraterrestrial signals.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Drake Equation and its variables
  • Familiarity with astrobiology concepts
  • Knowledge of the Rare Earth hypothesis
  • Basic grasp of cosmology and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence
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  • Research the implications of the Rare Earth hypothesis on extraterrestrial life
  • Explore advancements in astrobiology and their impact on the Drake Equation
  • Learn about current technologies used in the search for extraterrestrial signals
  • Investigate the Fermi Paradox and its relation to the Drake Equation
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Astrobiologists, cosmologists, researchers in extraterrestrial intelligence, and anyone interested in the scientific exploration of life beyond Earth.

  • #31
narrator said:
If time is a factor, for a viable planet to develop atmosphere, then organisms, then intelligent life, then advanced civilization... then we add the effect of gravity on time.. then perhaps the worlds closest to the gravity well at the centre of our galaxy would be further along the evolutionary/advancement scale.
:eek:
No. GR has a vanishingly small effect.
 
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  • #32
I think I recall a discussion here that our galaxy has a habitability zone where the conditions are more friendly to life. I had suggested that the older stars near the central hub would have older civilisations but there are also much higher levels of radiation around there.
 
  • #33
Tanelorn said:
I think I recall a discussion here that our galaxy has a habitability zone where the conditions are more friendly to life. I had suggested that the older stars near the central hub would have older civilisations but there are also much higher levels of radiation around there.

Also, all those Population III stars are much poorer in metals.
 

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