For a long time, humanity has harbored doubts about being alone in the universe, and modern science suggests that there could be dozens of extraterrestrial civilizations lurking not far from Earth. Some of these civilizations may even be advanced enough to communicate with humans.
Scientists at Nottingham University estimate that there are at least 36 intelligent extraterrestrial civilizations capable of communication within the Milky Way galaxy. This estimate is based on the assumption that intelligent life forms on other planets in a manner similar to how it formed on Earth, using what they call the Copernican Biological Limit of the Universe.
Experts also suggest that Earth is not a particularly special civilization. It is highly likely that an Earth-like planet exists on a similar orbit around a star resembling the Sun, which could very well host a civilization developing technology in a manner akin to humans. Based on such conjectures, there could be about 36 Earth-like planets.
There are dozens of other civilizations in the Milky Way.
In this scenario, other technological civilizations are likely also attempting to send signals, such as transmitting radio waves from satellites and televisions, in a timeline similar to humans, who are also trying to seek out other forms of life.
Previous calculations regarding extraterrestrial life were based on the Drake Equation, which includes necessary factors to determine the number of intelligent civilizations, formulated by astronomer and astrophysicist Frank Drake in 1961. These estimates vary widely, ranging from 0 to billions of civilizations.
Currently, researchers in Nottingham have refined the equation using new data and assumptions. They found that there could be between 4 and 211 civilizations with the opportunity to communicate with other civilizations, with 36 being the most likely number.
Earth’s current technology cannot communicate with extraterrestrial life.
However, the search for these civilizations is another story, as scientists believe they could be thousands of light-years away, and Earth’s current technology makes detecting or communicating with extraterrestrial life nearly impossible.
Nevertheless, the importance of searching for intelligent life beyond Earth is always emphasized, as it will provide us with insights into the longevity of our own civilization. Humanity has been, is, and will continue to seek out “friends” in the universe. Conselice states, “By searching for intelligent life beyond Earth, we are exploring the future and fate of our own existence.“
