With the exception of a few movies (e.g., Star Trek: First Contact), aliens have
invaded Earth mostly for the same reason—invasion and destruction of humankind or
we have something they need (like water in Oblivion).
If we’re able to make contact with aliens, will they be “good” aliens who want
to help us further our exploration of space? Or will they be “bad” guys who
want to destroy us?
That presumes we’re capable of contacting aliens. Scientists
are trying to figure out a way. A study announced earlier this month by MIT proposed that laser technology would be used to announce our presence in this part of the universe.
On one of our trips home from Arizona, we
stopped near Socorro, New Mexico to see the Very Large Array, a field of
twenty-seven 25-foot radio telescopes that are used to investigate the heavens.
At the same time, we’re taking in information, we’re also letting E.T. know
that we’re home.
While standing near those huge telescopes (that remind me of
satellite dishes), I was filled with excitement as I remembered the movie Contact when Jody Foster’s character
discovered signals from an unknown world while working with SETI (Search for
Extraterrestrial Intelligence) Institute at Aricebo, Puerto Rico.
Having seen too many science fiction movies where the aliens
resemble giant insects or lizards, I want to know where are the aliens that are
humanoid? Like in sci-fi romances? I wouldn’t mind if they have pointed ears (like
the Vulcans in Star Trek) or are
warriors like the Klingons. In my sci-fi romances, my aliens are not creepy.
But, what if in real life, they are creepy? Disgusting looking? District 9, anyone? Okay, I know I shouldn't judge any being by its appearance. How that being looks is no indication of its intelligence, ethics, or purpose.
What if they don't come in peace? What if they don't want to be friends? What if they only
want our minerals and the heck with the inhabitants? Do we really want to transmit
signals that say “hey, guys, here we are”?
Something to think about.
