Prospects of SETI by small size optical telescopes

Abstract

In the present manuscript we consider the possibility of conducting SETI with small-size (with diameters less than 1 m) optical telescopes. Calculations are performed for typical parameters of the mentioned type of telescopes. In particular, we show that the techno-signatures of Type-2.x and Type-3.x civilizations might be detected. It is demonstrated that it is possible to detect hot megastructures (up to 4000 K) built around Main Sequence stars and pulsars, as well as von Neumann extraterrestrial probes.

Keywords

• extraterrestrial intelligence
• astrobiology
• telescopes