A radio signal detected deep in space has a technological origin known to man

New observations are constantly being made in space. This was particularly the case with the James Webb telescope, which successfully observed its first exoplanet close to Earth. But recently, a radio signal from deep space has been traced to a technological source that is not unknown to scientists. 

Detected in Australia using the ASKAP radio telescope, it initially intrigued researchers. It must be said that this type of phenomenon is often associated with extraterrestrial life and therefore with a message sent by highly developed civilizations to our planet. 

As a result, this particular signal belongs to the category of ultra-fast radio signals. At first, scientists thought it was a fast radio burst, which is a mysterious flash whose origin remains unknown. But one factor immediately ruled out this hypothesis.

The signal's duration is tiny, lasting only 30 nanoseconds. This is much shorter than what is usually observed. Consequently, another explanation had to be sought, and it is quite surprising. Tracking down the origin of this intriguing phenomenon, scientists discovered that it came from somewhere close to Earth, as it was caused by a satellite launched by NASA in the 1960s that is now inactive. Named Relay 2, it orbits at an altitude of 4,500 kilometers above our heads. 

However, the reason for this signal is still under investigation, and two explanations have been put forward. The first suggests an electrostatic discharge due to an electrical overload, while the second points to an impact caused by a small meteorite on the surface of the satellite, causing a spark that could be picked up by equipment on Earth. 

So, if it is not a signal sent by an advanced civilization, it could prove useful to scientists. Indeed, by taking this example, it will be possible to avoid such errors in the future and to better observe space while eliminating interference signals that can alter certain studies.