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SETI 2020: A Roadmap for the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

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This book reports the recommendations of a scientific and technical working group that met periodically from 1997 to 1999 to chart the future of research and technology development for SETI, the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence. That group was assembled and funded by the SETI Institute, the leading institution in the field. The report focuses first on strategic objectives, then on search strategies and options for new telescope and computer designs.

This document was intended to be a landmark comparable to the visionary Project Cyclops report published in 1972. Technological advances since then -- particularly in computer technology -- clearly justified a fresh review. SETI 2020 recommends broadening the frequency range of searches to include optical and infrared wavelengths, looking for both continuous wave and pulsed signals, and using multiple beams per telescope in microwave searches. The report recommends that the SETI Institute undertake the development and construction of a One Hectare Radio Telescope, and an omnidirectional SETI system that could allow continuous, all-sky coverage for the low end of the microwave window. The Working Group also endorsed some existing strategies: using systems for both targeted searches and sky surveys, and focusing on beacons.

Nearly half of this book consists of technical appendices. The most intriguing of them is Jill Tarter's review of the Project Cyclops report from the perspective of 25 years later. Not only has technological advance improved our capabilities and widened our options; we also know more about the science involved.

Those readers with a serious interest in the technical means astronomers use to search for evidence of intelligence beyond the Earth will find this book very informative. It will tell most readers all they want to know about the technology issues, though less about the science. While the language is clear and straightforward, it lacks the stirring, visionary quality of the Cyclops report. Perhaps that is a sign that SETI has matured. Or it could be the result of drafting by committee. Those readers who are looking for an introduction to SETI or a general overview of that field should look elsewhere, particularly in view of the outrageous price.

SETI 2020 is essential reading for everyone with a serious interest in the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence or, indeed, radio astronomy in general. More than fifty of the World's leading experts contributed to this work which has been finely crafted into one coherent volume

Originally intended to encourage financial contributions-at which it has succeeded admirably-this book describes the historical development of the Institute's work and looks forward to methods which depend on currently developing technology. Reality is already catching up with its predictions, which shows how realistic the expectations of the Institute are.

Much of the book describes the science and technologies specific to the search, but there are also discussions about topics of wider interest such as the origins of the "Fermi Paradox", high-powered lasers, various ways of measuring time, and many others.