2280 Microbial life is confirmed on an exoplanet Half a century of antimatter propulsion has allowed much of the local stellar neighbourhood to be explored. By the end of the 23rd century, the first direct confirmation of alien life is obtained. After surveying hundreds of worlds, automated probes uncover a unicellular organism within 50 light years of our solar system. This lifeform reproduces via binary fission. It has an internal chemical structure that is remarkably similar to DNA, suggesting that this form of replication may be quite common throughout the Universe. It exists on a warm, wet planet with a G-type star as its parent.** This system also includes gas giants in the outer regions, offering some protection from comets and other incoming bodies. The impact of this discovery is less profound than it might have been in previous centuries. Religion has already vanished from many societies, for example. Science and technology in general have advanced so far - in so many new ways - that previous "wonders" of the Universe are beginning to diminish in significance: even the possibility of alien life. Though still hailed as a landmark discovery, the emotional aspect of this and other breakthroughs has waned considerably, as human thought and endeavour become ever more computerised, logical and machine-like. Transhumans and robots now make up the bulk of the mainstream population. Efforts are now underway to uncover more advanced and complex life. The potential for contact with intelligent alien races is now being taken seriously for the first time.
Posted on: Sun, 14 Jul 2013 03:04:20 +0000
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