The big question is not, "Are we alone in the universe?" It is "Why haven't we committed to answering this question?" Now we have.
In hope to find extraterrestrial life, Russian billionaire Yuri Milner, backed by Stephen Hawking, announced on Monday, July 20, 2015, the $100 million to be put towards a new scientific search. They call it 'Breakthrough Listen.'
Expected to span over the next 10 years, this new research project has high goals.
It is the largest scientific search for life beyond earth ever attempted.
It will cover 10 times more sky than anything before.
All data discovered will be open to the public.
It will use both radio frequencies and laser transmissions in attempt to contact other life forms.
The software to be used is compatible with telescopes around the world, inviting them to join the search.
It will scan the 1,000,000 closest stars to our planet, our galaxy, and the 100 closest galaxies.
In lesser words—if something is out there, we will find it.
Photo via Guardian
The Search For Extraterrestrial Intelligence, also known as SETI, has been "active" for over 50 years, but all funding came from universities and private organizations—no government funding. According to the "The Washington Post," every cent of the budgeted $100 million will come from Yuri Milner's own pocket.
There is also a competition for a $1 million prize, known as Breakthrough Message. Whoever has the best digital message to send back, if contact is made, will receive the award.
Scientists and researchers across the world are supportive and optimistic of the outcome from this expensive, intricate project. The thought of communicating with other humans or aliens out in space boggles the minds of everyone on earth. All we know is our human race; it's difficult to grasp the concept that there could be countless other extraterrestrial lives out there.
As Stephen Hawking said, "It is important for us to know if we are alone in the dark."
