The Very Large Array (VLA) of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Socorro, New Mexico It's hard enough getting a good connection to your friend's cell phone. Imagine trying to pin down a signal when you don't know where in the universe it's coming from -- or who or what is sending the message. But that's just what the SETI program has set out to do in its search for extra-terrestrial intelligence. For over 20 years now, SETI scientists have been scanning the cosmos for ET signals using radio and optical telescopes. Of course, with billions of stars to sift through, at times it's seemed impossible that anyone out there will pick up the phone. Using assumptions and tools, like the Drake Equation, astronomers have narrowed their focus on the most promising locations. So, is there anything out there? Well, in 1977, the Big Ear radio telescope picked up a signature of sorts within the expected extra-terrestrial parameters that lasted for 72 seconds. While you may think that's nothing to phone home about, in the SETI community that episode is known as the Wow! signal. Still, with the help of amateur astronomers and ever-changing technology, the search continues... Hello? Can you hear me now? Suggested Sites... SETI Institute - the SETI team, current projects, and special features. SETI@home - participate in the search through this experimental program that uses Internet-connected computers and a free program. Beginner's Guide to Radio Astronomy and SETI - good starting place for the amateur astronomer. Contact - about the movie with interviews, production notes, voyager recording, and the science it is based upon.

Directory categories: SETI, Radio Astronomy, Extraterrestrial Life, UFOs and Extraterrestrials

Archived under: Aliens, Astronomy, Communication, Science, Space, UFOs

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