Astronomers have long searched the sky for evidence that we’re not alone. But new research is suggesting we may be one of a kind.
There’s an old joke about Sherlock Holmes and his assistant, Watson.
“Let’s go camping,” Holmes says to Watson one day. “Jolly good!” replies Watson. So the two pack up their gear, head into the woods, set up their tent and by nightfall, are sound asleep. Hours later, Watson is awakened by a nudge from Holmes.
“Watson!” says the detective, “look up! What do you see?” “I see the sky, full of stars,” says Watson, a little annoyed. “And what do you deduce from that?” asks Holmes. Watson thinks for a moment, and replies, “Well, given the thousands of stars, it’s improbable that ours is the only planet capable of sustaining life. Therefore, other beings like ourselves are likely out there somewhere, looking back at us. Is that what it means?”
“No, you nincompoop,” replies Holmes. “It means someone has stolen our tent!”
