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Ultranarrowband searches for extraterrestrial intelligence with dedicated signal-processing hardware
P Horowitz1, B S Matthews, J Forster
1Physics Department, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA.
Icarus
|January 1, 1986
Summary
This study details a new microwave search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) using millihertz resolution spectroscopy. The advanced receiver technology and targeted frequency searches aim to detect narrow-band radio signals from distant stars.
Area of Science:
- Astrophysics
- Radio Astronomy
- Astrobiology
Background:
- The search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) benefits from high-resolution spectroscopy to detect narrow-band radio signals.
- The interstellar medium's properties and Doppler corrections aid in rejecting interference for SETI signals.
- Previous searches have utilized various frequencies and resolutions, but millihertz resolution offers enhanced sensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a novel multichannel spectroscopy system for detecting narrow-band radiofrequency beacons from potential extraterrestrial civilizations.
- To conduct a systematic search for technosignatures around Sun-like stars using advanced radio astronomy techniques.
- To refine SETI search strategies by matching spectral resolution to interstellar medium characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Construction of a frequency-agile swept receiver with an 8,388,608-channel spectrum analyzer.
- Implementation of on-line signal recognition and multithreshold archiving for efficient data processing.
- Observation of 250 Sun-like stars at 1.4 and 2.8 GHz using the Arecibo 305-m antenna and a meridian transit search at the Harvard-Smithsonian 26-m antenna.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive search of 250 Sun-like stars has been completed at key microwave frequencies.
- Ongoing meridian transit searches are expanding the sky coverage for potential extraterrestrial signals.
- Spectra are analyzed for narrow-band features indicative of intentional beacon transmissions at specific "magic" frequencies.
Conclusions:
- Millihertz resolution spectroscopy is a viable and powerful strategy for microwave SETI searches.
- The developed receiver system and search methodology demonstrate increased sensitivity and interference rejection capabilities.
- The ongoing search continues to explore the potential for detecting artificial signals from other star systems.