Explosions of powerful energy emanating from the depths of the Universe may well be signals of an advanced alien civilization trying to send us a message – at least, the influential astrophysicist Avi Loeb unexpectedly announced this to everyone.
Earlier this month, Canadian scientists discovered 16 signals coming from deep space. These signals are known as fast radio bursts (FRBs), but what they really are is still a mystery. It is also known that FRBs can emit as much energy per second as the Sun does in 10,000 years.
Such signals are extremely difficult to study as they can only last a millisecond and it is impossible to predict when they will come. The most likely explanation for the origin of the signals is powerful gamma-ray bursts – short but extreme radioactive bursts from stars.
However, one leading astrophysicist unexpectedly reported that scientists cannot rule out the possibility that these signals were sent through space by an advanced civilization. Here's what Avi Loeb, Chair of the Department of Astronomy at Harvard University, said in a new article for Futurism:
'We do not currently have evidence that clearly defines the nature of FRB. Thus, all possibilities should be considered, including signals of artificial origin. '
One possibility, according to Dr. Loeb, is for an advanced alien race to use these beams to transport cargo from stars to stars. This will require technology and energy far beyond the capabilities of humanity.
“There may be a huge engineering project, much more ambitious than ours on Earth. Thus, the main technological problem is the enormous power that the radio beam must carry. '
Some experts have previously warned that there is nothing good about trying to contact us. Even Stephen Hawking, who died in March 2018, suggested that contact with aliens could be very risky.
Olle Haggström, professor of mathematical statistics at Chalmers University and author of the book on existential risks Here Be Dragons, also noted that advanced extraterrestrial civilization can view humanity as a threat and simply destroy us because of this.
