Are we alone in the Universe? Leading scientists in the world on the search for extraterrestrial life

If our planet is not unique, then the probability of the existence of intelligent life everywhere is enormous. Moreover, throughout the history of humanity, aliens have had enough time to make themselves known. So where are they? What are they like? And if we find them, what will it lead to? Answers to these questions are being sought by scientists from various professions - astronomers, physicists, cosmologists, biologists, anthropologists, exploring all aspects of the problem. This includes searching for planets and moons where life is likely, the possible structure of alien consciousness, stories of alien abductions, and the portrayal of "aliens" in science fiction and cinema. To write this book, Professor Jim Al-Khalili gathered a team of scientists and thinkers, world leaders in their fields, among whom are stars like Martin Rees, Ian Stewart, Seth Shostak, Nick Lane, and Adam Rutherford. Together, they represent the entire spectrum of questions and achievements of modern science in this search, and each of them contributes their unique perspective.