The Drake Equation

The Drake Equation was formulated by Frank Drake in 1961 at the first conference to consider the possibility of detecting extraterrestrial intelligence in our galaxy. It is a statement for calculating the probability of such intelligence and estimating the number of civilizations capable of radio communication, but the values for the input variables are almost as unreliable today as they were in 1961.

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This is not only the room in which Dr. Drake first conceived and presented what is now called the Drake Equation, but the art deco chandelier is the very one under which he sat when he thought of it. The room is part of the dormitory in which guest astronomers (and Chautauqua Seminarians) may stay.

The plaque commemorating the Drake Equation. It is mounted above the fireplace in the previous picture.

Back to SFJ's Summer 2003 NRAO Green Bank gallery.

Last Updated June 25, 2003.
© 2003 Stevens F. Johnson and the Dept. of Physics/Science, Bemidji State University. All rights are reserved unless explicitly stated otherwise.