I am often approached about the subject of life in the universe and whether we are alone or share its vastness with other lifeforms.
This generally also leads to the topic of UFOs.
The universe is pretty large; rough estimates are that the diameter of the observable universe is around 93 billion light years (note that’s just the observable universe).
Additionally, calculations show that over 100 billion galaxies are located in this expanse. In our galaxy alone, there could be approximately 40 billion planets that might support life in some form, with 11 billion in orbit around stars similar to our sun.
Given these estimates, it’s a pretty convincing argument that life exists elsewhere and may (in some instances) be more advanced than ourselves.
- Having said this, why haven’t we found conclusive proof of it yet?
There are many theories, including the obvious fact that the space between us and the nearest star is so hopelessly massive that we just don’t have the technology yet to visit far-off worlds capable of hosting life.
Other theories are more existential; google “Fermi Paradox,” but prepare to feel slightly depressed after reading about it. Whatever the reasons, I am pretty sure that in the not-too-distant future we will find proof of life.
- But then what about UFO’s?
U.F.O. stands for Unidentified Flying Object; the term can be applied to anything that is observed but has not or cannot be identified.
It doesn’t mean the object is of alien origin, but it also doesn’t exclude the possibility.
- Have I seen any UFO’s in all my years of astronomy?
Of course I have, but again, that doesn’t mean they are alien crafts.
One should always seek a scientific explanation first (such as reflective space debris, satellites, weather balloons, comets, meteor showers, asteroids, and so on), but failing a satisfactory and plausible answer, something that cannot be conclusively identified falls into the category of UFO.
Carl Sagan once said, “The universe is a pretty big place. If it’s just us, it seems like an awful waste of space.”
This simple yet profound statement certainly gives us much to ponder.
The news provided to you in this link has been investigated and compiled by the editorial staff of the Newcastle Advertiser, a sold newspaper distributed in the Newcastle area. Please follow us on Youtube and feel free to like, comment, and subscribe. For more local news, visit our webpage, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and request an add on our WhatsApp (082 874 5550).