Space Forum / Shuttle / November 2003

Would the far side of the Moon be a better place to establish a listening
station for E.T. radio or laser signals than Earth?  Its a zero radio-noise
environment.

Also, the Moon's vacuum would be transparent to radio and light waves,
further enhancing the reception. Perhaps smaller antennae could be employed
just as the Hubble Space Telescope can use a smaller mirror with greater
effect than land-based equipment.

Since there is no time soon when Man will attempt an interstellar voyage,
SETI it would seem is the only means by which we will be searching for
advanced civilizations. It would provide scientific justification for
manned missions to the Moon.

Has the NASA think tank considered this kind of project?  Is it doable with
today's technology?  Is it a harder project than a mission to Mars?

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