1989 06 00 OMNI - Paul McCarthy

Magazine Overview

Title: OMNI
Issue Date: June 1989
Content Focus: Science, technology, and speculative fiction, with a particular emphasis on ufology and extraterrestrial intelligence in this issue.

UFO UPDATE: The SETI Protocol

The central article in this issue, titled "UFO UPDATE," focuses on "The SETI Protocol," a document created by Michael Michaud, who directs the State Department's Office of Advanced Technology. The protocol is designed to be signed by all astronomers involved in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

Goals of the Protocol

The primary objectives of the protocol are to minimize the likelihood of hoaxes and to prevent the premature announcement of any potential contact with alien civilizations. Michaud explains that the document aims to reduce the chance of a hoax or the premature announcement of contact. Furthermore, it mandates that any discovery made by signatories must be made public, ensuring that information about alien messages belongs to the entire world, not just to a single institution or organization.

Rationale for the Protocol

Allan Goodman, a political scientist at the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and a contributor to the protocol, outlines several key reasons for its development. Firstly, he points out that current international law and existing protocols do not address the possibility of contact with extraterrestrials. Secondly, Goodman's discussions with SETI investigators revealed a division of opinion: some were inclined to keep such contact secret, while others believed it should be treated like any other scientific discovery. Goodman argues that neither approach is adequate, stating, "It would be the most dramatic scientific announcement in our lifetime, and must be treated as such."

Scientific Community and Public Reaction

Jill Tarter, a researcher at NASA Ames Center and a protocol contributor, emphasizes the need for caution within the scientific community while simultaneously reassuring the public that any extraterrestrial contact will be announced. However, not all SETI investigators are fully supportive. Paul Horowitz of Harvard expresses apathy, viewing SETI as just another scientific issue that "science will take care of itself."

Implementation and Future Steps

Protocol proponents intend to secure endorsements from the International Academy of Astronautics and the International Institute of Space Law. They will then seek support from international scientific bodies like the International Astronomical Union. Following this, they plan to approach all identified individuals and institutions involved in SETI activities. Although the protocol cannot legally bind a government, Goodman states that the next step will be to ask governments to sign it. A separate, and highly emotional, issue that was initially part of the protocol is who would speak for Earth in the event of contact. This topic will be addressed in a future document due to its sensitive nature.

Other Featured Articles

Beyond the "UFO UPDATE," the cover highlights other articles within the June 1989 issue:

• Dolphins That Talk: Explores communication and intelligence in dolphins.
• Why LSD Studies Were Stopped: Investigates the history and reasons behind the cessation of LSD research.
• Diary of a Cave Woman: A piece likely focusing on early human life or a fictional narrative.
• Other Mind Games: Suggests content related to psychology, consciousness, or cognitive science.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of OMNI magazine reflects a consistent editorial stance that embraces cutting-edge science, speculative possibilities, and the exploration of the unknown. The prominent placement of "The SETI Protocol" underscores the magazine's interest in serious discussions about extraterrestrial intelligence and the societal implications of potential contact. The inclusion of diverse topics, from animal communication to the history of scientific research and early human life, showcases OMNI's broad scope within the science and technology realm. The magazine appears to advocate for a responsible, informed, and globally inclusive approach to significant scientific discoveries, particularly those with profound implications for humanity.