What if we find evidence of an alien civilization, but there’s no one left to answer?

In this short bonus deep dive, astronomer and SETI researcher Dr. Stephen DiKerby explores a possibility the movies visit less often: first contact with something its makers left behind. A distant signal, an abandoned probe, or ancient technology could tell us we aren’t alone without offering anyone to talk to.

From the Drake equation and the lifespan of technological civilizations to Voyager’s messages from Earth, we explore what might survive across cosmic time, whether the intelligence we encounter could be mechanical, and who gets to speak for humanity if we decide to introduce ourselves. Entrusting that last decision to an eccentric billionaire may deserve a little discussion.

Want the whole story? Listen to Season 1, Episode 2: NOIC Goes to the Movies: Summer Alien Invasion Special for more from Stephen and our other guests on first contact, alien movies, and what those stories reveal about us.

About our featured expert

Dr. Stephen DiKerby is an astronomer and postdoctoral researcher at Michigan State University. His work explores the high-energy universe and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, including how we might detect technology built by other civilizations.

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