Most alien civilisations are likely to have detection systems more sensitive than humans. (Image Credit: Bing Image Creator/Dall-E).
The discovery can only be made by technologically sophisticated extraterrestrials in the galactic neighbourhood
Technologically sophisticated extra terrestrial civilisations can soon be able to detect signals leaked by the cellular infrastructure on Earth, according to new research based on crowdsourced simulations. According to the findings, only the most advanced aliens can detect the radio leakage from mobile towers. The chances of detection are going to get increasingly likely as the world moves towards more powerful broadband systems. The simulations indicate that the mobile signature of the Earth indicates a substantial contribution from emerging economies. The findings challenge the notion that radio broadcasting systems have become outdated, with the human civilisation becoming increasingly radio silent in recent years.
A paper describing the findings has been published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. Lead researcher Mike Garrett says, “I’ve heard many colleagues suggest that the Earth has become increasingly radio quiet in recent years – a claim that I always contested. Although it’s true we have fewer powerful TV and radio transmitters today, the proliferation of mobile communication systems around the world is profound. While each system represents relatively low radio powers individually, the integrated spectrum of billions of these devices is substantial.”
The models simulate the signals that can be detected by alien civilisations in three nearby star systems, HD 95735, Barnard’s star, and Alpha Centauri A. The research indicates that Earth is getting increasingly radio bright in recent decades, a trend that is expected to continue in the foreseeable future. The researchers indicate to next simulate the signals received by new technologies over interstellar distances, including military and civilian radar, constellations of internet satellites, new broadcast systems, WiFi networks and even individual smartphones.
According to the dark forest hypothesis, the reason why humans have not discovered advanced alien civilisations so far is because they take every effort to hide their existence, considering all other civilisations in the galaxy to be a threat. It may be prudent to take steps to hide our existence too.
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