Calculate the number of advanced civilizations in our galaxy.
N = R* · fp · ne · fl · fi · fc · L
This graph represents the estimated number of technologically advanced extraterrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way galaxy capable of interstellar communication.
The chart illustrates how this number changes based on the star formation rate (R*) — one of the key parameters in the Drake Equation.
These civilizations are hypothesized to have developed detectable signals, such as radio technology, which could be observed by our astronomical instruments. The estimate incorporates other factors like planetary habitability, the emergence of intelligent life, and the longevity of such civilizations.
The Drake equation was formulated by Dr. Frank Drake, an American astronomer and astrophysicist, in 1961. Drake conceived the equation not to provide a precise number of civilizations, but as a way to stimulate scientific dialogue at the first SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) conference, held in Green Bank, West Virginia.
The equation serves as a probabilistic argument used to estimate the number of active, communicative extraterrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way galaxy. It breaks down a large, unknown problem into smaller, more manageable pieces. While the values for most of its parameters are still highly speculative, the equation remains a cornerstone of astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, encouraging scientists to consider what we know and what we still need to learn about our place in the universe.