Did you know that there is a greeting in the Urdu language floating around in space currently, some 19 billion kilometers from Earth?

How did it get there, and for whom is it intended are the two questions that naturally follow.

In 1977, Nasa launched a spacecraft called the ‘Voyager’, which was equipped with scientific instruments to increase our understanding of outer planets, the solar system, and the worlds beyond it.

This spacecraft is the first of any kind to capture breathtaking views of planets Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.

After 38 years of sailing through space and traveling a distance of some 19 billion kilometers, the Voyager has now exited our solar system and entered the interstellar space.

However, when this machine was being designed, a pertinent question arose; what if other intelligent extraterrestrial life forms were to stumble upon it? And if they did, how would they know it was sent from Earth?

As a solution to this problem, a ‘Golden Record’ — containing pieces of music, pictures and various sounds from all over the world, including greetings in 55 different languages — was fixed on the Voyager.

Resultantly, when and if, other intelligent life forms do intercept the spacecraft, they would know its origin, and with it, about us.

Dr. Salman Hameed from Hampshire College, USA, explains this intriguing concept and the story behind the Golden Record in the video above.

This video is a part of a series titled ‘Science Ka Adda’, which is aimed at enhancing public understanding of science.

Opinion

Editorial

Budgeting austerity
Updated 16 May, 2025

Budgeting austerity

The past policy of squeezing salaried classes and fully documented corporations to collect taxes will not work any longer.
A ‘new’ Syria
16 May, 2025

A ‘new’ Syria

THE American embrace of the post-Assad Syrian regime is complete, with President Donald Trump meeting the Arab...
Business of begging
16 May, 2025

Business of begging

IT is a matter of deep embarrassment that Pakistan has become an ‘exporter’ of beggars. Over 5,000 have been...
Rebuilding trust
Updated 15 May, 2025

Rebuilding trust

Both countries will have to restart the dialogue process. One major step India can take would be to honour the IWT.
Political off-ramp
15 May, 2025

Political off-ramp

IN the midst of every crisis, there lies great opportunity. With the nation basking in the afterglow of Pakistan’s...
Awami League ban
15 May, 2025

Awami League ban

BANGLADESH stands at a key crossroads. While the ouster of Sheikh Hasina Wajed’s government and the formation of ...