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Curious Minds: Extraterrestrial Life

11 episodes 94%4KCC

When the universe goes quiet, the search for answers grows louder.

Explore how scientists search for life beyond Earth, why potentially habitable planets are reshaping the odds, and what experts say should happen if a signal is found. From decades of listening to the debate over sending a message back, this series turns one of humanity's biggest questions into a gripping, idea-rich watch.

Episode guide

11 episodes
1
1Are We Alone In The Universe?
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, lists the scientific reasons why it is plausible for other life forms to exist in the Universe.
2 min
2
2Extremophiles
Michael Summers, Professor of Planetary Science & Astronomy at George Mason University, explains how creatures that survive in extreme conditions on earth give us a broader perspective on what's possible elsewhere.
1 min
3
3How Do Radio Wave Signals Look Engineered?
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, explains the technology behind artificial looking radio waves.
1 min
4
4If A Signal Is Detected, Who Replies?
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, debates the merits of transmitting signals to outer space. If we receive a response, who speaks for Earth?
2 min
5
5Life As We Imagine It
Michael Summers, Professor of Planetary Science & Astronomy at George Mason University, wonders if alien life forms may be utterly different from life as we know it.
1 min
6
6SETI Has Been Listening A Long Time
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, describes the organization's historical search for extraterrestrial life.
1 min
7
7SETI: The Archaeology Of The Future?
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, explains why the organization's role is that of universal historians.
2 min
8
8The Mystery Of Life
For Michael Summers, Professor of Planetary Science & Astronomy at George Mason University, the big surprise will be if we DON'T find alien life in the next 30 years.
1 min
9
9What If An Alien Signal Is Detected?
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, outlines the process that would occur, should SETI's goal of detecting life be successful.
2 min
10
10What Is A Radio Telescope?
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, describes radio telescopes and their importance in the search for extraterrestrial life.
2 min
11
11Why Do We Search For Other Planets?
Jill Tarter, co-founder of the SETI Institute, describes the purpose behind her livelihood.
2 min
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