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SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) is a scientific effort to detect signs of intelligent life beyond Earth, primarily by searching for artificial radio or optical signals from distant civilizations. The concept emerged in the mid-20th century as humanity began exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial life, inspired by the Drake Equation, which estimates the likelihood of communicative civilizations in the Milky Way.

Early SETI research focused on scanning the sky for narrowband radio signals, which could indicate technological transmission rather than natural phenomena. Projects like the Ozma Project (1960), led by astronomer Frank Drake, marked the beginning of systematic SETI efforts. Modern initiatives, such as the Allen Telescope Array and Breakthrough Listen, employ advanced radio telescopes and computational methods to analyze vast amounts of data from millions of stars.

SETI operates under the assumption that an advanced civilization might use radio waves or laser pulses for communication or energy transmission, making these signals detectable across interstellar distances. While no confirmed extraterrestrial signals have been identified, several notable candidates—such as the "Wow! Signal" (1977)—have sparked debate but remain unexplained. Critics argue that SETI lacks a clear scientific framework, as it relies on unproven assumptions about extraterrestrial technology and communication methods.

Beyond radio searches, optical SETI explores laser pulses, while biochemical SETI examines atmospheric signatures of alien life. The Fermi Paradox—why no definitive evidence of extraterrestrial civilizations exists despite high probability estimates—remains a key challenge. SETI continues to evolve, integrating machine learning and citizen science platforms to enhance signal detection and public engagement.

While SETI remains a speculative field, it contributes to broader astrobiology research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between astronomy, physics, and computer science. Its findings, whether positive or negative, could profoundly impact humanity’s understanding of its place in the universe.