Jason Wright leads research into cosmic technosignatures

Astrophysicist Jason Wright, director of the Penn State Extraterrestrial Intelligence Center (PSETI), is advancing the search for extraterrestrial intelligence by focusing on technosignatures. Unlike traditional SETI methods that primarily listen for intentional radio signals, technosignatures involve searching for physical or observable traces of advanced technology in the cosmos.

These traces can include artificial radio emissions, laser flashes, unusual alterations in starlight, or atmospheric compositions that cannot be explained by natural processes. Wright’s research also explores the possibility of detecting mega-structures or anomalous energy sources. His work gained international attention through his analysis of KIC 8462852, also known as Tabby’s Star, where he proposed that anomalous brightness dips could be linked to extraterrestrial mega-structures.

Recent projects led by Wright’s team involve studying how NASA’s Deep Space Network emits accidental signals into space. The goal is to use these terrestrial patterns as templates to intercept communication networks that other civilizations might use to interact with their own probes.