New Books in Science, Technology, and Society

Rebecca Charbonneau, "Mixed Signals: Alien Communication Across the Iron Curtain" (Polity, 2024)

Jan 8, 2025
Dr. Rebecca Charbonneau, a historian of science with a PhD from Cambridge, discusses the fascinating intersection of extraterrestrial communication and Cold War politics. She uncovers how American and Soviet scientists collaborated despite geopolitical tensions, revealing untold stories from the Soviet perspective. The conversation highlights the dual role of scientific pursuits in military contexts and the impact of national biases on messages intended for alien life. Charbonneau's insights transform our understanding of the quest for cosmic connection against a backdrop of rivalry.
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