Scientists have revealed how humans could communicate with extraterrestrial beings in outer space, and even prevent wars between galaxies if they were to occur. Academics have compiled the most comprehensive "Extraterrestrial Linguistics" to date, designed to ensure that any contact with potential extraterrestrial life is friendly and not perceived as hostile. A study conducted in 2020 claimed that there are about 36 "advanced" civilizations in the Milky Way galaxy alone, although recognizing or contacting any of them has so far remained elusive.
According to "The Times," a new volume assembled by 25 leading experts in linguistics, anthropology, animal communication, philosophy, computer science, and biology aims to "explore the potential nature of extraterrestrial intelligence with linguistic capabilities." For decades, humanity has been searching for the possibility of other intelligent life in space, even sending signals and communications in hopes of receiving a response someday. This included sending the Voyager spacecraft beyond our solar system, loaded with a "golden record" containing greetings in 54 languages, animal sounds, and even music.
The new research utilizes current understanding of human languages and the various ways animals communicate, with the goal of deciphering "intended communication from another world." Previously, scientists concluded that there is a slim but possible chance of successful contact with extraterrestrial life, but this research paper highlights that significant steps are still needed on Earth to increase the chances of such encounters.
These steps could include deciphering ancient languages that have not yet been translated, including Linear A, a writing system used by the Minoans on the island of Crete until around 1400 BC. The researchers suggest sending a short and simple signal toward "a million star systems once daily." They explain that "communications will be slow, as it takes four years to reach the nearest star beyond the sun at the speed of light. Other life forms may have entirely different body chemistry and methods of communication that humans cannot comprehend."
