Preparing for the possibility of extraterrestrial detection: The SETI Protocols

The AO Editors

Allen Telescope Array and Jansky Very Large Array (illustrated) are capable of detecting and pinpointing a potential extraterrestrial transmission with high precision. 

Image Credit: Dave Finley/AUI/NRAO/NSF

The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) has been ongoing for decades without success. However, new technology is accelerating the search, raising the question of what will happen if we detect a signal indicating the existence of extraterrestrial life. If the discovery is made, it must be shared with the international scientific community, and all associated data must be archived permanently.

If a signal is confirmed to have been detected, it is imperative to exercise caution and seek international consensus. A Post Detection Task Group has been established under the backing of the SETI Permanent Committee to provide scientific and public analysis of the detection's implications.

Signatories of the SETI protocols have agreed not to respond in the event of a confirmed signal without obtaining guidance and permission from a broadly representative international organization, such as the United Nations. According to a survey by the SETI Institute, 72 percent of Americans would feel "excited and hopeful" at the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

However, there are potential repercussions to consider, such as the effect on religion and the ethical implications of responding to extraterrestrial signals. Others argue that sending a response could lead to instantaneous human unity. Predicting the long-term impact of SETI's success is a challenging and intricate endeavor.

SETI observations utilize radio telescopes to examine hundreds of millions of channels for signs of extraterrestrial signals. If a signal is detected, SETI scientists must confirm its authenticity and inform other scientists and the public. The International Academy of Astronautics created the SETI Detection Protocols, which outline the best practices for confirming the signal's extraterrestrial origin, informing others, and obtaining international approval before transmitting a response.

Abridged SETI detection protocols:

Confirmed sightings:

Suppose the verification process confirms that a signal results from extraterrestrial intelligence. In that case, the discoverer must report this conclusion to the public, the scientific community, and the Secretary General of the United Nations openly and transparently. All data required to confirm the detection should be made accessible to the international scientific community via publications, meetings, conferences, and other suitable means.

The discovery must be tracked. Any evidence of extraterrestrial intelligence should be permanently recorded and archived to the greatest extent possible.

Suppose the evidence of detection consists of electromagnetic signals. In that case, observers should seek international agreement to protect the relevant frequencies by utilizing the special procedures established by the World Administrative Radio Council of the International Telecommunication Union.

Post detections:

Under the auspices of the SETI Permanent Committee, a Post Detection Task Group has been established to assist with issues that may arise in the event of a confirmed signal and to support the scientific and public analysis by providing guidance, interpretation, and discussion of the detection's broader implications.

Observation of signals:

Signatories to this declaration will not respond to the confirmed detection of a signal without first seeking the guidance and approval of a broadly representative international body, such as the United Nations.

(From an October 2, 2011 meeting of the International Academy of Astronautics Commission 1 on "Space Physical Sciences")

The possibility of detecting alien intelligence is both exciting and frightening. It is arguably the most intriguing discovery in human history, but it also raises significant ethical and practical issues. The purpose of the SETI protocols is to provide guidance for navigating this uncharted territory and to ensure that any discoveries are responsibly handled.