Into the Impossible With Brian Keating cover image

Into the Impossible With Brian Keating

Confessions of an Alien Hunter with Seth Shostak (2021)

Aug 27, 2024
Seth Shostak, an astronomer and author who leads the search for extraterrestrials at the SETI Institute, shares intriguing insights about the ongoing quest for alien life. He discusses the resurgence of interest in UFOs following military reports and the skepticism that often surrounds such claims. Shostak also reflects on the evolving role of the SETI Institute, the implications of the Drake Equation, and how advancements in technology might reshape future explorations. With humor and engaging anecdotes, he emphasizes the importance of curiosity in both science and personal pursuits.
47:28

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Investigations into UFOs indicate that 80% to 90% of sightings are explainable, challenging the expectation of clear governmental disclosure of extraterrestrial evidence.
  • The SETI Institute's expansion into astrobiological research highlights an integrated scientific approach to understanding extraterrestrial life potential beyond traditional intelligence searches.

Deep dives

The Complexity of UFO Investigations

Investigations into unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have revealed that a significant majority, often cited as 80% to 90%, can be attributed to mundane phenomena. Only a small fraction remains unexplained, leading to implications about the notion of 'disclosure' concerning extraterrestrial technology. This discrepancy raises questions about the validity of claims that definitive proof of UFO existence will come through governmental transparency. Consequently, it challenges the perception that such disclosures will conclusively verify the presence of extraterrestrial life.

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