Interstellar communication

Abstract

The paper discusses a project in which the possibility of receiving signals from another civilization in our galaxy is being studied. The main question is in what electromagnetic frequency band should the search for such signals be conducted. Possible bands are discussed in terms of quantum costs and attainable signal-to-noise ratios. Of particular interest is the 'water hole', the range of frequencies from 1.420 to 1.662 GHz, with fundamental frequency in the Galaxy being the hydrogen line at 1.420 GHz. A plan for searching this band is described, in which the contemplated system would have a capability of detecting a 1000-Megawatt omnidirectional beacon at a distance of 10,000 light years.