As humanity seems to be at a dead end in the search for signs of extraterrestrial life, it’s now time for artificial intelligence to step in.
As the quest for extraterrestrial civilization hits a wall, The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence Institute (SETI) has turned to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
SETI’s goal is clear: to enhance the search for signs of unusual phenomena, as well as extraterrestrial life, in the most efficient way possible.
After decades of searching, humanity has still not found signs of life beyond Earth or the existence of aliens (Photo: Getty).
Bill Diamond, President and CEO of SETI, stated: “The amount of data we generate increases exponentially each year, and humans cannot keep up with that data through traditional analysis.”
“AI and machine learning are being used extensively and will be used even more. This will be the key for humanity to discover the hiding place of extraterrestrials.”
Bill Diamond mentioned that AI is being utilized by SETI in the data collection process at a rate of about 3 terabytes per second. Here, all types of transmission waves or unusual radio spectra will be detected and recorded.
Subsequently, AI will analyze and simulate, making predictions about their origins. Typically, each phenomenon will have its own explanation, and AI will perform this task instead of humans.
For unusual and inexplicable phenomena, AI will filter them, allowing scientists to analyze them more thoroughly.
By training AI to recognize these signals, researchers aim to develop models that can reliably detect extraterrestrial signals, even the faintest ones.
“Instead of directing AI to search for something specific, we teach AI to look for anything different. Essentially: Show me anything that deviates from the norm,” explained Bill Diamond.
Mitch Horowitz, an expert and historian, acknowledged that advancements in artificial intelligence and quantum computing could transform AI into a valuable tool in the search for extraterrestrial civilization.
Not only SETI, but NASA is also applying a significant amount of AI in space missions.
In July, the AI-assisted Perseverance rover discovered a rock in the Jezero crater on Mars. This location was later named “Cheyava Falls.”
Previously, NASA used AI to automate time-consuming processes such as program and project evaluations. This allows NASA to streamline decision-making, conserve resources, and leverage the full potential of its workforce.
