In the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), it is important to conceptualize how one might identify the existence of extraterrestrials. Such conceptualization informs SETI operations – where to point sensors and what sorts of sensors to use, for instance. The most well-established classification system for extraterrestrial intelligence is the Kardashev scale, which classifies a civilization’s level of technological advancement according to how much energy it can use. But there are other ways to conceptualize classification. Valentin Ivanov of the European Southern Observatory has worked on an alternate classification system. We spoke to him to learn more.

The rest of the interview see: https://filling-space.com/2021/12/17/how-do-you-classify-extraterrestrial-civilizations/

A reprint of our research paper in Astronomy & Astrophysics can be seen here: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2005.13221.pdf