Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Eternal Signals?

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Eternal Signals is an ambitious and pioneering project that aims to explore the possibilities of interstellar communication using high-powered AM radio transmissions. Our mission is to send directed radio signals into space, enabling a new form of human outreach to the cosmos. Through this initiative, we offer individuals the unique opportunity to participate in a scientific experiment that could potentially establish contact with extraterrestrial civilizations or simply send their thoughts into the vastness of space. Our efforts are deeply rooted in both scientific exploration and public engagement, making this a global endeavor to connect with the universe.
 

2. Why are the broadcasts only during night time?
 

The decision to limit our broadcasts to night time hours for now—specifically between 10:00 PM AST and 5:00 AM AST—is grounded in solid scientific reasoning and the physical properties of radio wave propagation. Here’s why night is the ideal time for sending signals into space:
 

The Ionosphere's Role: The Earth's ionosphere, a layer of the atmosphere filled with charged particles, plays a crucial role in the propagation of AM radio waves. During the day, solar radiation causes the ionosphere to become highly ionized, which increases its density and alters its reflective properties. This leads to greater absorption and scattering of radio waves, particularly in the AM band (500-1700 kHz). As a result, daytime transmissions can suffer from significant degradation, reducing their range and clarity.
 

At night, however, the absence of sunlight leads to a reduction in ionization levels. The ionosphere becomes less dense and more stable, transforming it into a better reflector of radio waves, especially at lower frequencies like those used in AM transmissions. This change in the ionosphere at night allows AM radio waves to travel much farther and with greater fidelity. For our purposes, this means that nighttime is the optimal window for broadcasting signals intended to reach deep into space.
 

Reduction of Terrestrial Interference: The electromagnetic environment on Earth is significantly quieter at night. During the day, human activity generates a vast amount of radio frequency noise—from industrial machinery, electrical systems, and electronic devices—that can interfere with radio transmissions. This terrestrial noise can drown out or distort signals, making it difficult for them to propagate cleanly through the atmosphere.
 

At night, as human activity decreases, so does the level of electromagnetic interference. The quieter conditions make it easier for our signals to escape Earth's atmosphere without being overwhelmed by background noise, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful transmission into space.
 

Astronomical Considerations: Night time offers a clearer path to the stars, with less interference from the Sun’s radiation. This is particularly important for targeting specific celestial objects or regions in space. When the Earth is positioned between the Sun and our target in deep space, the signals can be transmitted directly without having to pass through the Sun’s electromagnetic influence. This alignment enhances the chances of our signals reaching their intended destinations with minimal loss of strength or quality.
 

3. When will Eternal Signals start broadcasting?
 

Eternal Signals will commence its first broadcast at 12:00 AM AST on December 21st, 2025. This date is chosen for its deep symbolic and astronomical significance:
 

Winter Solstice: December 21st is the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, the day with the longest night and shortest day of the year. This event has been celebrated for millennia across various cultures as a time of rebirth, renewal, and reflection. It represents a turning point, where the darkness begins to recede, and the light slowly returns—mirroring our project’s mission of illuminating the unknown by sending signals into the vast darkness of space.
 

Astronomical Alignment: The winter solstice also holds practical significance for our broadcasts. On this date, the Earth's axial tilt positions the Northern Hemisphere at its furthest point from the Sun, leading to prolonged periods of darkness. This extended night gives us an ideal, uninterrupted window for broadcasting, maximizing the time our signals can travel through space without solar interference.
 

Historical and Cultural Resonance: Choosing the winter solstice as our launch date connects Eternal Signals to a rich tradition of human contemplation of the cosmos. Ancient civilizations often aligned their monuments and rituals with solstices and equinoxes, recognizing these moments as key times to observe the heavens. By beginning our broadcasts on this date, we honor this legacy of cosmic awareness and align our mission with a time of profound significance in human history.
 

4. What is the significance of the broadcast hours?
 

Our broadcasts are scheduled from 10:00 PM AST to 5:00 AM AST each day. These hours are chosen not only for the technical advantages discussed above but also for their symbolic resonance:
 

Connection to the Cosmos: Nighttime is traditionally a period of reflection, introspection, and observation of the night sky. It is during these hours that humans have historically looked up to the stars, pondering our place in the universe. By broadcasting during this time, Eternal Signals taps into this timeless human experience, offering participants a chance to send their thoughts into the cosmos when it is most naturally aligned with our instincts to explore and communicate with the unknown.
 

Prime Time for Interstellar Communication: As previously mentioned, the reduced ionospheric interference and lower terrestrial noise during these hours make them the most effective time for our signals to escape Earth's atmosphere and travel into space. This alignment of technical optimization and cultural significance strengthens our broadcasts, making them both scientifically sound and deeply meaningful.
 

5. How does Eternal Signals work?
 

Eternal Signals uses a high-powered AM transmitter to send focused radio waves into space. Here’s a breakdown of how the process works:
 

Signal Generation: We generate AM (Amplitude Modulated) radio waves within the 950-1270 kHz frequency range. These waves are chosen for their ability to travel long distances with minimal loss of strength, making them ideal for our interstellar communication efforts.
 

Directional Broadcasting: The generated signals are directed towards specific regions of space using advanced antenna systems. These antennas are designed to focus the radio waves, ensuring they travel as far as possible without dispersing.
 

Night time Transmission: The broadcasts take place during the night time window to take advantage of the ionospheric conditions that allow for better propagation of the signals into space. This ensures that the signals can reach their maximum potential distance, increasing the chances of them being detected by other civilizations or bouncing off celestial objects for further analysis.
 

Public Participation: Individuals can participate by crafting their own messages to be included in our nightly broadcasts. These messages are transmitted as part of the overall signal, allowing participants to send their thoughts, questions, or greetings into the cosmos. This unique aspect of Eternal Signals offers a personal connection to the project, making it a global endeavor that invites everyone to be part of the exploration.
 

6. How can the public participate in Eternal Signals?
 

Eternal Signals offers a unique opportunity for individuals to be part of a groundbreaking experiment in interstellar communication. Here’s how you can get involved:
 

Submit Your Message: Participants can craft personal messages that will be included in our nightly broadcasts. These messages can be anything from greetings to questions for potential extraterrestrial civilizations.

By participating, you have the chance to send your thoughts into the cosmos, potentially reaching distant stars or other forms of intelligent life.

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7. How Do We Convert Video Files for AM Transmission After They Are Submitted to Us?

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Initial Review and Compatibility Check:
Once a video file is submitted, we first perform a compatibility check. We ensure the file format (e.g., MP4, AVI, etc.) can be processed by our conversion system. If necessary, we contact the submitter for clarification or ask them to resubmit the file in a compatible format.

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Compression and Encoding:
We compress and encode the video to reduce its size, optimizing it for the narrow bandwidth of AM transmission. The resolution and frame rate are adjusted to ensure smooth playback within the limitations of AM technology.

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Frame Extraction and Audio Conversion:
The video is divided into individual frames. Using proprietary software, each frame is converted into a corresponding audio signal. This signal represents the visual information of the frame and is mapped to specific frequencies that can be transmitted via AM.

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Signal Modulation:
The converted audio signals are modulated onto an AM carrier wave. This step ensures that the video data, now represented as an audio stream, is prepared for transmission over AM frequencies.

 

Quality Control:
We perform a final quality check on the modulated signal to ensure that it meets transmission standards. If any issues are detected, the file may undergo further adjustments.

 

Transmission Preparation:
Once the video has been successfully converted and modulated, it is queued for AM transmission at the scheduled time. We notify the submitter of the successful conversion and provide them with details about the transmission once completed.

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8. Do I just get a confirmation after my video is transmitted, or do I receive more details?

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Upon completion of the transmission, you will receive an official Transmission Certificate. This certificate will outline all key details of the transmission, including the specific AM band used, the time of transmission, and other relevant information. It serves as an official record of your transmission, providing a clear and detailed account of the broadcast.