In what could be one of the most significant moments in human history, NASA has received a radio signal from a neighbouring star system, indicating intelligent extra-terrestrial life has heard and responded to our messages.

The signal, received by the Deep Space Network (DSN), was sent in response to NASA’s 1972 radio transmission to the Voyager spacecraft, which has since left our solar system on its quest to find extra-terrestrial life. The transmission was part of a long-term search for extra-terrestrial intelligence, known as the SETI program.

The signal is believed to have come from a planet orbiting a star known as HD 102365, located approximately 30 light-years away. The message was a simple reply, containing a series of numerical sequences that scientists believe represent a form of interstellar communication.

“Receiving a response to our messages is an incredible achievement and marks a significant milestone in our search for extra-terrestrial life – it’s a moment that will be remembered for centuries to come,” said NASA’s chief scientist, Dr Emily Smith.

The discovery has sent shockwaves throughout the scientific community, with many experts hailing it as one of the greatest scientific discoveries of all time. “This discovery will change the way we view our place in the universe,” said Professor Jason Stephens, a leading astrophysicist at Harvard University.

The message raises questions about the nature of extra-terrestrial life, including their biology, technology, and social structures, and is expected to inspire a new generation of space explorers and scientists. The search for extra-terrestrial life has long been one of humanity’s greatest scientific endeavours. The response signal represents a monumental step forward, which raises more questions than answers.

Having made first contact with aliens, the biggest challenge is how to converse – any reply will take at least 30 years to get there!