The first high frequency technosignature search survey with the Sardinia Radio Telescope
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The search for radio signals from technologically advanced extraterrestrial intelligence has traditionally focused around 1.4 GHz. In this paper, we extend the exploration into previously uncharted frequency space, presenting extensive observations at 6 GHz and pioneering the first survey at 18 GHz with the Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT). Our strategy entailed rigorous observation sessions, totaling 73 h, directed towards the Galactic Center and 72 selected TESS targets—making this the most comprehensive high-frequency technosignature search to date. Our narrowband signal search found no definitive evidence of drifting signals that could suggest an extraterrestrial origin from the surveyed regions. Nevertheless, our efforts have enabled us to set new constraints on the presence of radio emissions from approximately 5 × 1 0 5 stars, establishing an isotropic radiated power limit of 1 . 8 × 1 0 19 W. We also provide a comparative analysis of the ’hits’ recorded across both frequencies to highlight the significance of pursuing technosignature searches at higher frequencies, where the spectral landscape is less congested and more conducive to detection. • First technosignature searches at 6 GHz and 18 GHz with the Sardinia Radio Telescope. • Searches for narrowband drifting signals in the Galactic Center and 72 TESS targets. • Set new constraints on extraterrestrial radio emissions, limiting isotropic power.
Source: Acta Astronautica
Authors: Lorenzo Manunza, Alice Vendrame, Luca Pizzuto, Monica Mulas, Karen I. Perez, Vishal Gajjar, Andrea Melis, Maura Pilia, Delphine Perrodin, Giambattista Aresu, Marta Burgay, Alessandro Cabras, Giuseppe Carboni, Silvia Casu, Tiziana Coiana, Alessandro Corongiu, Steve Croft, Elise Egron, Owen A. Johnson, Adelaide Ladu, Matt Lebofsky, Francesca Loi, David MacMahon, Carlo Migoni, Emilio Molinari, Matteo Murgia, Alberto Pellizzoni, Tonino Pisanu, Antonio Poddighe, Andrea Possenti, Erika Rea, Andrew Siemion, Paolo Soletta, Matteo Trudu, Valentina Vacca
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,350
OpenAlex ID: W4409388146