Explore the fascinating search for extraterrestrial intelligence in this 52-minute lecture by science journalist Keith Cooper. Delve into the history and progress of SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) over the past six decades, examining the challenges, methodologies, and assumptions involved in the quest to find alien life. Learn about various detection techniques, including radio signals, lasers, and technosignatures, as well as intriguing concepts like Dyson Spheres and the Wow Signal. Discover the latest developments in the field, such as the Breakthrough Listen project and Breakthrough Starshot, while considering the potential implications and unintended consequences of contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. Gain insights into the vastness of our galaxy, the fine-tuning of the universe for life, and the ongoing debate surrounding the Fermi Paradox.
Overview
Syllabus
Intro
Why use radio
New frontier in astronomy
Frank Drake
Radio
Breakthrough Listen
Jodie Foster
National Ignition Facility
Lasers vs Radio
Infrared Lasers
Transits
Techno signatures
Dyson Spheres
Dismantle Jupiter
Weird transits
The Big Ear Telescope
The WoW Signal
Our Galaxy
Arecibo
The Problem
The Arguments
Breakthrough Starshot
Tulip Mania
Unintended Consequences
Why is the universe finetuned for life
What next
Takehome message
Taught by
The Royal Institution
