The Best of Coast to Coast AM Space Signals - Best of Coast to Coast AM - 5/24/25
May 25, 2025
Join Senior astronomer Seth Shostak from the SETI Institute as he dives into the intriguing hunt for extraterrestrial life. He discusses how signals from space might indicate intelligent life and the philosophical implications of such a discovery. Seth highlights the vital role of private funding in the search for alien intelligence and the challenges of signal detection. The conversation also touches on humanity's past attempts to communicate with the cosmos and the notion of aliens tuning into our classic television shows. Prepare for an entertaining journey through the universe!
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Government Secret on Alien Signals?
- If a signal from extraterrestrial intelligence were found, it couldn't be kept secret due to the need for verification by international colleagues.
- Government cover-up is unlikely since independent confirmations across the world would expose the discovery.
Public Reaction to Alien Contact
- The discovery of extraterrestrial intelligence is unlikely to cause global panic; fear would likely precede excitement initially.
- Since Earth has been broadcasting signals for decades, aliens nearby would already know of our existence.
Earth's Signals Broadcast Widely
- Earth emits various signals including radar and TV broadcasts, which propagate into space and may be intercepted by extraterrestrials.
- Shutting down signals like airport radars to hide presence is impractical and risky for human safety.