Viewing OSETI

Optical SETI is the search for intelligent signals in what we call the optical part of the spectrum. For an alien race from a world different from Earth, of course, the optical part of the spectrum might be somewhere else. Still, the physics of creating powerful laser beams that could reach across interstellar distances would be the same.

The Planetary Society is conducting an OSETI search using a 72-inch telescope in Massachusetts that is dedicated solely to conducting an all-sky survey looking for signals. Now, by logging on to www.planetary.org, people can see a live view of the night sky over the telescope and learn exactly where it's pointed.

Another interstiing idea from an organization that has been highly successful in bringing the public into scientific research and space exploration for a quarter century.