Physics World Weekly Podcast
The Wow! signal: did a telescope in Ohio receive an extraterrestrial communication in 1977?
Aug 29, 2024
In August 1977, the Big Ear telescope captured a mysterious signal that sparked intrigue about extraterrestrial life. Scientists debate its origins, with recent research providing new, non-alien explanations. Abel Méndez and his team discuss their findings, linking astronomical observations to natural phenomena. The conversation dives into signal analysis, the limitations of early technology, and the evolving methods in the search for cosmic communication. Plus, there's a nod to CERN's 70th anniversary, blending history with contemporary scientific exploration.
41:05
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Quick takeaways
- The Wow! signal, a strong narrowband communication recorded in 1977, prompted extensive debates about its extraterrestrial origins and interpretations.
- Recent research by Abel Méndez and colleagues suggests the Wow! signal may actually originate from natural astrophysical phenomena like magnetars or hydrogen masers.
Deep dives
The Mystery of the WOW Signal
In 1977, the Big Ear radio telescope detected a strong narrowband signal that lasted for 72 seconds, intriguing astronomers who were searching for signs of extraterrestrial life. The signal's strength and narrow frequency raised questions about its nature, leading one scientist to note 'WOW' next to the data printout. This unexpected observation became a landmark event in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, as it seemed to fit the criteria that researchers had established for possible artificial signals. As discussions about its origin unfolded, various theories ranged from it being a terrestrial communication to a unique astronomical phenomenon, though none fully accounted for its brief existence.
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