New rules in case a sign of extraterrestrial intelligence is found
In June 2026, the International Academy of Astronautics adopted an updated version of the so-called post-detection protocol for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The revision, led by Michael Garrett, requires rigorous verification before any announcement, protects researchers from harassment, and continues to prohibit any unilateral response to a possible signal.
On June 5, 2026, the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) announced that it had officially adopted the 2026 update of its declaration of principles concerning the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). The document sets out what researchers and their institutions must do if a signal or other evidence may point to extraterrestrial technology. This is the first major revision of the IAA's so-called post-detection protocols in more than 15 years. The earlier versions were adopted in 1989 and amended in 2010.
The revision was led by Michael Garrett, professor of astrophysics at the University of Manchester and chair of the IAA SETI Committee. The work took several years, and according to the organization, more than 350 SETI researchers and experts from around the world took part in it.
Why was a new rule needed?
According to Garrett, today's information environment is far more complex than it was in 2010. In an age of deepfakes, automated disinformation and instant global reach, an unverified claim can cause confusion or panic. The update therefore specifically addresses the risk of "viral" rumors and the need to separate verified data from hoaxes and interference of terrestrial origin.
The document also reflects the fact that the search no longer focuses only on radio signals. The search for so-called technosignatures now covers the entire electromagnetic spectrum, from laser signals to the infrared heat emission of possible megastructures.
What does the declaration require?
The document's core principle remains that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. Garrett said that they do not shout aliens at the first sight of a strange signal. They check, check again, and then ask others to check as well. They turn to the public only once a consensus has formed that the signal is genuine.
The main points:
- Verification before announcement: if a thorough verification confirms that a signal comes from extraterrestrial intelligence, it must be communicated promptly and in full to the public, the scientific community and the UN.
- Transparency: researchers and their institutions must answer questions about their research even while the investigation is underway.
- Protecting researchers: the declaration calls for safeguards for scientists who may face harassment, doxxing (the public release of their personal information) or intense media pressure after a possible detection.
- No unilateral response: under the principle in place since 1989, sending a reply is a decision that belongs to all of humanity. Therefore no reply may be sent until appropriate consultations have taken place within a broad international body, such as within the framework of the UN.
What comes next?
The IAA SETI Committee is establishing a permanent post-detection subcommittee made up of experts in the social sciences, law and ethics. This subcommittee would advise on the longer-term societal consequences of a confirmed discovery. The new declaration will also be sent to other relevant organizations, including the UN. A professional presentation of the protocols is planned for this year's International Astronautical Congress in Turkey.
In August, Der Spiegel also published a piece on the subject, in which Garrett discusses the risks of possible contact.
The sober take
The protocol is a precautionary set of rules, not a sign of a discovery. To date, no signal or technosignature originating from extraterrestrial intelligence has been confirmed. The rules apply to astronomical SETI research, such as radio and optical observations, not to UFO or UAP sightings.
Sources
- Der Spiegel (UFO-téma): Außerirdisches Leben: Astrophysiker Michael Garrett über Risiken eines Alien-Kontakts
- Beyond Disclosure Day: The Real-World Protocols
- IAA Press Release 26/01 – Declaration of Principles Concerning the Conduct of the Astronomy-based SETI
- Updated rules for evaluating and revealing the detection of extraterrestrial intelligence