Scientists and star-watchers were initially baffled by the mysterious "Wow!" signal that showed itself back in August 15, 1977. The signal blared through a radio telescope for just 72 seconds and since then, its origins have been traced.
Sun-Like Star Origin Found to be 1,800 Light Years Away
According to the story by Gadgets 360, almost a century later, the alleged source of the broadcast has been found by researchers. A study that was initially published on May 6 shows that the signal might have come from far away.
As per the study, the signal could have come 1,800 light years away from a Sun-like star located in the Sagittarius constellation. The signal is being studied by the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).
SETI has been Looking for Possible Transmissions from Far Away
SETI, ever since the mid 20th century, has reportedly been out on the look for possible transmissions that come from far away. The "Wow!" signal's location was discovered by an amateur scientist by the name of Alberto Caballero.
The findings of Caballero were initially published in the International Journal of Astrobiology's May edition. As per Caballero, the one Sun-like star was initially found 1,800 light years away.
'Wow!' was Officially Named 2MASS 19281982-2640123
The objects was reportedly named 2MASS 19281982-2640123 and as per Caballero, the star was found way "too far for humans to send a signal in response." Caballero noted that in order to send a signal to the star, it would take 1,800 years if the signal traveled at the speed of light.
Jerry Ehman, an astronomer, discovered the Sun-like star published the initial report of the "Wow!" signal and how it showed up at the Ohio State University's Big Ear telescope during an SETI search.
Mysterious 'Wow!' Signal Only Lasted for 1 Minute and 12 Seconds
As per Ehman, the finding was initially very strong but also fleeting. It was said that the "Wow!" signal was only able to last for a minute and 12 seconds long.
When Ehman discovered the printout of the signal, he then scribbled "Wow!" on the page which in turn led to the name of the eventful sighting. Other reports by Ehman include one that stated that "since hydrogen was the most abundant element in the universe," there could be signals out in space seeking attention.
Astronomers have Ruled Out Other Possibilities Regarding the 'Wow!' Signal
An American Astronomical Society report stated that the researchers have been searching regularly for other follow-ups that come from the same location. So far, however, they have not been successful in finding any other signals.
Caballero also said that the "Wow!" signal's origin most likely came from a natural event. Astronomers, however, have also ruled out certain possibilities like the "Wow!" signal being a comet passing by.
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Written by Urian B.
