For decades, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence has looked for hints of civilizations beyond Earth, from radio signals to signs of advanced engineering. Now, a new report from the SETI Post-Detection Hub at the University of St Andrews warns that while detection efforts are advancing, the world remains unprepared for what happens after a discovery.

The paper, “SETI Post-Detection Futures: Directions for Technosignature Research and Readiness” , argues that a confirmed technosignature – evidence of alien technology – would bring not just scientific breakthroughs, but also profound political, ethical, and cultural upheaval. Unlike the 20th century, when earlier detection protocols were drafted, any future discovery would unfold in an era of instant global communication, online misinformation, and competing national interests. Without preparation, the world risks confusion – or even chaos – in the face of such a momentous event.

The authors outline six urgent priorities to strengthen readiness:

1. Build better detection tools. They call for advanced, networked observatories and AI-driven anomaly detection systems to distinguish genuine signals from noise.

2. Expand our concept of intelligence. By engaging philosophy, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence research, scientists can prepare for forms of intelligence radically unlike our own.

3. Include humanities and social sciences. Responses to alien contact will be as much about human society as about astronomy; fields like anthropology, ethics, and psychology must help shape planning.

4. Practice future-proofing. Through foresight exercises and scenario planning, researchers and policymakers can explore a range of possible outcomes, from benign discovery to geopolitical tension.

5. Plan communications. Transparent verification protocols, coordinated announcements, and trusted public engagement will be essential to counter misinformation and speculation.

6. Foster global cooperation. Since contact would be a planetary event, the paper stresses the need for international partnerships, shared standards, and institutional resilience.

The report also calls on agencies such as NASA to integrate post-detection readiness into their astrobiology and space science programs, funding not only telescopes but also cross-disciplinary research.

At its heart, the message is clear: finding technosignatures is only half the challenge. How humanity reacts could determine whether such a discovery unites or divides the planet. The authors argue that planning should begin now – before the universe surprises us.

In other words, preparing for alien technology isn’t just about science fiction anymore. It’s about ensuring that, when the call from the stars finally comes, Earth is ready to answer.