The search for extra terrestrial life in the universe

One of the most fascinating questions that occur while contemplating the universe is: whether other life exists within the spheres of the greater universe. It's through science fiction books and movies that we are told and shown that there are extra terrestrial beings which are far more superior to humans.

But what's the reality?

Writer Obaidur Rahman attempts to answer this question as per his own understanding based on scientific facts, available information and of course spirituality. Containing five chapters the book focuses on the relation and possibilities between the extra terrestrial life and religious texts, sayings astronauts; Histories of UFO's and E.Ts, and the various stages of life on earth. The writer has even attempted to study the basic components of life in the universe. The solar system, too, has been briefly analysed.

In brief, the writer has taken to define and explain the complex scientific terms and elements as easy possible and this is what will tempt the reader to turn the next page. History of the universe, solar system, cosmos is clearly delineated so that the reader finds it easy co-relate with other factors.

After having read the first two chapters full of technical and historical references and details the question that this reviewer couldn't help asking is – ' if life truly exists in the universe then should we attempt to contact them or not?'

The background behind the entire search for life in the universe had begun for well over half a century; scientists have been scanning the heavens for signals generated by intelligent alien life. They haven't found anything conclusive as yet, but that hasn't halted the hunt. In fact, some researchers have taken the search a step further ahead. An example-le in this regard is the "active SETI" (search for extraterrestrial intelligence) — not just listening, but also beaming out transmissions of our own designs to catch aliens' eyes. Discussed in chapter 5, the SETI seemed more revealing in terms of the advanced search aspects.

But the content of any potential active SETI message is a subject of considerable debate leaving the topic controversial as well. Since the book is about the search for extra terrestrial life so one name, in particular, needs mentioning and he is the pioneer or father of SETI, Frank Drake. He conducted the first modern search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) experiment in 1960. More than five decades later, the hunt remains front-and-centre for him.

It's the Drake equation named after him that tried to answer the mystery of extra terrestrial life. But instead of an equation it's more of a way of systematizing the unknowns.

According to an exclusive interview which is not in the book, the situation with SETI is not progressing due to lack of funding. The most important instruments or two largest radio telescopes are in jeopardy and that's slowing down the search progress too.

Concerned authorities most hopefully will look into the matter i guess.

Finally the outcome, as yet, regarding extra terrestrial life is that  Aliens, UFOs, little green men or  however you brand it  are yet to be seen , contacted and  proved. Only a number of respected scientists speculate that extraterrestrial life exists.

So how far have we come regarding the evidence or proof?

Well that too is debated. For instance, Jupiter's moon Europa is believed to have the potential to support life. May be future missions to these places may find some form of life.

It's also the 'Star factor' and the 'cosmic criteria for life' that were plainly but interestingly described in chapter 5. Didn't know that a major portion of what determines the existence of life in the universe depends on stars. However, an opinion is that the book is not to be recommended for the general audience. But for gathering information and clearing doubts about extraterrestrial life, it's an interesting read.

Undoubtedly, the search for a new, habitable world is one of the most exciting things we the human beings are doing today and we are certainly in for surprises.

In the end it's the concluding words of the author that felt like a strong conviction. His belief is that life beyond this world exists and it's only a matter of time, it's explored. Also his suggestion to be ready to deal smartly with beings of the outer planet is exciting.

Wish someday the life in cosmos gets revealed for the better. The book is definitely not a confirmation but a firm assumption for life existing in the universe.

The last concluding line 'just like god intended.....'- Only affirms the author to be a man of strong faith. He surely believes in divine revelations.

The book lacks a proper preface, author's introduction and photos. Which i believe will be taken care of on the second edition. Priced at Taka 300 the book is published by sleek foundation.

The reviewer is a journalist