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4273-21 Transmission: The Other Side of SETI by David F. Mayer
Abstract The thesis of this paper is that the best way to answer these
questions is to look at SETI from the perspective of the civilization which is
attempting to TRANSMIT to another. I t is concluded that the visible band
presents the most viable medium of contact, since it offers both the greatest
bandwidth and the most narrow focusing, permitting the most information to be
transmitted to potential targets at the lowest cost. The essential problem
of defining the meaning of a message to an unknown civilization is solved by the
concept of the self-describing message. The problem of the selection of
potential targets is discussed and criteria for optimal choice are given.
Finally, the key question of the prudence of such a transmission program is
presented and discussed. Keywords SETI, sender, transmit, bandwidth, focusing, multiplexing, receiving civilization, transmitting civilization.
Author Biography David Mayer has a doctorate in Mathematics from Ohio State University,
1974. He taught mathematics at University of New Orleans, 1974-1978 and in
1978, founded Advanced Computer Consultants, an independent consulting
firm. Dr. Mayer has worked with Sea Solar Power, Inc. on the development
of the technology to harness the ocean thermal gradient, 1974-present. Author Affiliation Advanced Computer Consultants
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