Science & Tech · Space · 7 hrs ago
Scientists say timing may matter more than where SETI looks
SETI searches for signs of intelligent life beyond Earth by looking for technosignatures from other civilizations.
From 2012 to 2015, Project Phoenix examined about 1,000 sun-like stars for such signs.
Scientists at SETI say when researchers look may matter more than where they look.
The idea shifts attention from choosing target stars alone to considering the timing of observations.
The story identifies game theory as a tool for the search, but gives no details about how it is applied.
No next steps or new search plans are specified.
SETI scientists say when researchers look for signs of alien civilizations may matter more than where they look.
The search for extraterrestrial intelligence mostly focuses on where to look for technosignatures.
Between 2012 and 2015, SETI’s Project Phoenix targeted about 1,000 sun-like stars.
- Who
- Scientists at SETI.
- What
- They say the timing of searches for technosignatures may matter more than where researchers look.
- When
- The Project Phoenix search ran from 2012 to 2015. The scientists’ statement was reported on 2026-11-08.
- Where
- Project Phoenix targeted sun-like stars; the article does not state where they are.
- Why
- Not stated
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
SETI’s Project Phoenix targeted about 1,000 sun-like stars for signs of intelligent life.
Phys.org reported that SETI scientists say when to look might matter more than where.
- Project Phoenix
- SETI search
- Target stars
- About 1,000 sun-like stars
- Search period
- 2012–2015
- Reported on
- 2026-11-08