The “SETI Post Detection Hub” is a research facility that investigates how humanity should react when we discover that we are not alone in the universe. The hub, which began its work in 2022, has become a permanent institution dedicated to developing protocols and procedures in the event that we receive extraterrestrial signals.
In an interview with MIT Technology Review, director John Elliott explains the role of the hub. He has been involved with the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) project for 25 years, focusing on recognizing and decoding signals from potential extraterrestrial sources. However, he realized that there was no preparation or plan in place for what should be done if we actually find something. This led him to start the SETI Post Detection Hub and develop a strategy for how to respond to a potential signal.
The main idea behind the hub is transparency. Elliott believes that it is the duty of the research community to inform everyone if and when a signal is received, rather than keeping it a secret. He began writing papers about a strategy for decoding and communicating after detecting a signal and eventually decided to start the initiative himself. The goal of the hub is to have a plan in place so that the research community can effectively communicate with humanity, taking into account the rapidly changing technological landscape, including social media.
The interest in the hub’s work has increased as more exoplanets are discovered. Elliott highlights that many other scientists share his belief that there must be life beyond Earth. The current team consists of 36 experts from over 40 different disciplines, spread across the world. The team discusses various aspects of the problem, including space law, economics, politics, and the impact of such a discovery on daily life.
Currently, the work of the hub is being funded by the passion and enthusiasm of its members, who are working without pay. However, they have applied for funding and are hopeful for its success.
In terms of communication with aliens, Elliott suggests using the universe itself as a common frame of reference. Just as one would point to a tree when communicating with a lost indigenous tribe in the Amazon rainforest, he believes that a common reference point can be established. Images, similar to those used in the Arecibo message from 1974, can be used to metaphorically “point to something” and initiate a dialogue. However, understanding the content of the message is a challenge, as there is an arbitrary pairing between symbols and their meanings.
Elliott emphasizes that the responsibility of communicating with extraterrestrial life should not solely rest on researchers. Organizations like the United Nations (UN) should be involved in the process to ensure that communication is for the benefit of all of humanity. The hub already includes individuals associated with the UN, the European Space Agency, NASA, and other important organizations, and discussions are ongoing with these parties.
Overall, the SETI Post Detection Hub aims to be prepared for the potential discovery of extraterrestrial signals and to have a strategy in place for how to respond and communicate with the world. Through transparency, interdisciplinary collaboration, and involvement of global organizations, the hub seeks to address the challenges and opportunities that arise when we find out that we are not alone in the universe.
