SearchLites - Vol 11 No 4

Magazine Overview

SearchLites, Volume 11, Number 4, Autumn 2005, is the quarterly newsletter of The SETI League, Inc. This issue features a collection of articles and reflections on the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI), the nature of scientific discovery, and humanity's place in the universe.

This I Believe

By H. Paul Shuch, Executive Director

Shuch addresses the frequent question of belief in extraterrestrials. He asserts that the search is about finding truth, not faith. Recent astronomical discoveries have confirmed that the universe is capable of supporting life, with numerous stars having planets in habitable zones. He believes that humanity has the capacity to make contact but questions its will. SETI is described as a multigenerational enterprise, and Shuch expresses the belief that the journey will be completed by future generations. He highlights that extraterrestrial life has become a testable hypothesis, and humanity now possesses the tools and technology to answer the question of whether we are alone. Shuch also considers the implications of a lack of SETI success, suggesting it might lead to a renewed appreciation for Earth's unique place in the cosmos. The essay is presented as his contribution to a national media project.

The Great Silence – A Universe of Wimps?

By Richard Factor, President, The SETI League, Inc.

Factor discusses the concept of 'active SETI' and the concerns raised by David Brin regarding increasing Earth's electromagnetic footprint. While supporting passive SETI, Factor acknowledges Brin's arguments about the potential risks of making Earth too detectable. He notes that Earth's electromagnetic footprint has been expanding since the advent of television, but at greater distances, it becomes less detectable. The core question is whether it is wise to become significantly more detectable. Factor explores the 'principle of mediocrity,' suggesting that technological races might develop caution as they realize the universe's dangers. He posits that the 'Great Silence' might be due to civilizations hiding, possibly out of fear of predatory extraterrestrials ('Nirbs'). He concludes that the deadlock of potential conflict could only be broken if one ET race could prove there was no danger, which is a logical impossibility. The principle of mediocrity suggests many intelligent aliens exist, and their hiding implies they know something we don't, or vice versa.

Book Review: Stargazer: The Life and Times of the Telescope

Reviewed by H. Paul Shuch

Shuch reviews Fred Watson's book, which chronicles the history and impact of the telescope. He praises the book for its clear explanation of the science and technology behind the telescope and its role in human discovery. However, he expresses disappointment at the cursory treatment of radio telescopes and radio astronomy, noting that SETI is not mentioned at all. Despite this shortcoming, he finds the book a valuable overview of optical astronomy's primary instrument.

Event Horizon

This section lists upcoming conferences and meetings relevant to SETI, encouraging readers to check the SETI League website for more details and to submit information about other events.

Hungarians as Martians: the Truth Behind the Legend

By Philip Morrison (Editor's Note: Letter dated January 13, 1998, published posthumously)

Morrison clarifies that his theory of Martian origin for Hungarians is a spoof, distinct from the folk tale attributed to Fermi and Szilard. He explains that he originated the idea in 1945 or 1946 at Los Alamos. His reasoning was that Martians, planning a long-term occupation of Earth, would send intelligence assets disguised as a nation with a unique language and culture for cover. He cites the intelligence, beauty, and energy of Hungarians as evidence. He also touches on the historical migration of people from Rajasthan to Europe. Morrison humorously recounts how his story amused Theodor von Karman and was later documented by William R Sears. He emphasizes that this is a humorous anecdote and not intended for public rejoinder, but rather for the archives.

When Did We Become Obsolete?

By H. Paul Shuch, Ph.D.

Shuch reflects on the impact of Sputnik 1 in 1957 and the subsequent push for engineers in the US. He contrasts this with the Soviet perspective, where engineers were encouraged to stay ahead of Americans. He then discusses the evolution of communication, from ham radio and Morse code to instant messaging, email, and VOIP, noting how modern technology has made traditional ham radio seem obsolete. Shuch presents a hypothetical future where advanced communication technology fails, and humanity has forgotten basic scientific principles. In this scenario, an amateur radio astronomer and SETI League member, representing a primitive past, becomes crucial for saving civilization. The article suggests that the skills and knowledge of such individuals, like those in the SETI League, remain vital.

Remembrance: A Spherically Curious Mind

By Kosta Tsipis

Tsipis memorializes Dr. Philip Morrison, a physicist, arms controller, and advocate for peace. Morrison's early life included significant involvement in the Manhattan Project and advocacy for international control of atomic energy. He was a founding member and first President of the Federation of American Scientists. Morrison's career included professorships at Cornell and MIT, where he was known for his inspirational teaching and eloquent explanations of complex scientific concepts. Tsipis highlights Morrison's extensive book reviews for Scientific American and his transition from nuclear physics to astrophysics. Morrison's proposal of SETI was motivated by humility, a belief in universal physical laws, and a sense of adventure. He is remembered as a voice of reason and empathy.

Serendipity

By Charles Osborne, President, Society of Amateur Radio Astronomers

Osborne explores the concept of serendipity in scientific discovery, defining it as making accidental discoveries. He references Ken Kellermann's book "Serendipitous Discoveries in Radio Astronomy" and Grote Reber's contributions, noting how luck and opportune timing played roles in discoveries like Jansky's galactic noise and the development of the first radio telescope. Osborne quotes Grote Reber on his independence and ability to pursue research directions others deemed a waste of time. He draws parallels to the Wright brothers and Burt Rutan, emphasizing that modern funding models, which prioritize predictable returns, may hinder serendipitous discoveries. He concludes by wishing readers the freedom and luck to make their own significant discoveries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the fundamental questions of SETI, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, and humanity's place in the universe. There is a strong emphasis on the scientific method, the importance of critical thinking, and the value of diverse approaches to scientific inquiry, from passive observation to active communication. The newsletter also touches upon the historical development of science and technology, the role of individual initiative and serendipity in discovery, and the ethical considerations surrounding humanity's interaction with the cosmos. The editorial stance of The SETI League, as reflected in the articles, is one of open inquiry, scientific rigor, and a commitment to advancing the search for extraterrestrial intelligence while also fostering a broader appreciation for science and our understanding of the universe.