Who Speaks for Earth?

Paper number

IAC-15,A4,2,2,x30079

Author

Prof.Dr. H. Paul Shuch, The SETI League, Inc., United States

Year

2015

Abstract

Abstract

The scientific Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) has, for the past 55 years, centered primarily on observational research into electromagnetic emissions reaching Earth from space.  But, there have been sporadic efforts to reverse the experiment, instead transmitting messages from Earth toward possible cosmic companions.  Recent technological advances now put the equipment required for METI (Messaging to Extraterrestrial Intelligence) within the capabilities, reach, and budget of a wide range of institutions, businesses, and individuals; thus, METI activity is on the rise.  The scientific community is sharply divided about the advisability of METI, with several SETI organizations now taking stands, pro and con.  This paper will discuss the legal and societal implications of transmission from Earth, summarizing arguments for and against, so that such policy-making bodies as the IAA SETI Permanent Committee might better consider the big picture.

Keywords: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, SETI, Messaging to Extraterrestrial Intelligence, METI, interstellar transmission, protocols, IAA, SETI Permanent Committee

Abstract document

IAC-15,A4,2,2,x30079.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-15,A4,2,2,x30079.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.