Abstract

The problem of finding and studying extraterrestrial civilizations is a problem of exceptional importance to human experience, culture, and philosophy. For the information obtained as a result of the discovery of intelligence in the cosmos may point the path to development of our civilizations over astronomically long periods of time. Utilization of such information could fundamentally change our entire way of life and functioning. Interest in the solution of this superproblem grows with each passing year and involves a constantly increasing number of the most competent experts working in various spheres of natural science