Superior utility of lasers for interstellar beacons, communications, and travel

John D. G. Rather

doi:10.1117/12.150118

6 August 1993 Superior utility of lasers for interstellar beacons, communications, and travel

John D. G. Rather

Proceedings Volume 1867, The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) in the Optical Spectrum; (1993) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.150118
Event: OE/LASE'93: Optics, Electro-Optics, and Laser Applications in Scienceand Engineering, 1993, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Present research supporting the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) and Communications with Extraterrestrial Intelligence (CETI) is almost entirely focused upon microwave wavelength and technologies. This paper demonstrates compelling reasons why the search should be broadened to optical wavelengths. Previous calculations of laser transmission efficiency are shown to be incorrect because an essentially lossless laser transmission system is feasible and star noise can be rendered inconsequential. New perceptions regarding the feasibility of laser technologies, together with reassessments of signal-to-noise considerations, indicate both the feasibility and desirability of optical interstellar transmissions, particularly at infrared and visible wavelengths.

Citation Download Citation

John D. G. Rather "Superior utility of lasers for interstellar beacons, communications, and travel", Proc. SPIE 1867, The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) in the Optical Spectrum, (6 August 1993); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.150118

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