What was one thought to be a sign of possible extraterrestrial (ET) existence, is now possible seen as just a comet activity.
Early in November, scientists have been eyeing a star system named Tabby's Star or KIC 8462852. The Search of Extraterrestrial Intelligence Institute (SETI) has observed a strange light pattern for more than a couple of weeks. The scientists then theorized that the periodic dimming suggest possible ET existence.
Even Planet Hunters, an online astronomy site, gathered information of the strange light patterns from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration or NASA's Kepler Telescope.
There is an anomaly though. SETI has not detected radio signals, which are possible signals of technology. When there is technology, there is a sign of life.
The first type of signal they were looking for is a narrow band. A group of life with advanced technology should be able to send out waves informing whoever catches the signal that they exist.
The second type is broadband. This might be detectable if an established alien structure is present in the star system.
Now, NASA has come to a theory as to why an anomaly exists. They were saying that it is highly likely that a long band of comets are orbiting around the star system. During the comets' travels, the heads would block out the light from the star. In turn, what the humans see from the telescope looks like a flickering light.
One professor from the Iowa State said that more observations are needed to verify the claim. Although he admits that the light patterns are interesting, we humans should still need to take the theories with a grain of salt.
Tabby's star is 1,500 light years away from the planet Earth, and is between Lyra and Cygnus constellations.
Observers can only wait for the findings. It is still early to know if we have struck gold.
