So I Asked HAL I & II About Star Trek
Did you read Joseph Avila’s reporting for the Wall Street Journal yesterday about NASA using AI (and crowdsourcing) to study UFOs (now called “unidentified anomalous phenomena”)?
No doubt you recall that last year, the Pentagon released videos of UAP during the first congressional hearing on the subject in more than half a century. Avila work that “In July, a small group of former military and intelligence officials told a congressional panel that they have seen UAP and that they could pose a national-security risk. ‘The presence of UAP raises serious concerns about the safety of our skies,’ said Dan Evans, NASA’s assistant deputy associate administrator for research, at a press briefing. ‘It’s this nation’s obligation to determine whether these phenomena pose any potential threat to airspace safety.’”
NASA also disclosed Thursday that it had appointed a director of UAP research, but declined to name the person in that position.
…The NASA panel, organized last year, said UAP data collection is often captured unsystematically across government agencies with no central clearinghouse. The instruments that collect the information, including drones or government aircraft that record grainy video footage, often aren’t calibrated for scientific research, the team added. NASA has already said it would move forward with a few of the report’s recommendations, which include the use of AI and machine learning. It also said it would use public crowdsourcing to allow the public to report UAP.
David Spergel, chair of NASA’s UAP panel, said mobile phones can take high-quality photos with metadata.
“I think if we have a collection, where interesting events are collected by citizens, posted, and you have multiple images of the same event, we will be able to learn a lot,” Spergel said.
A data collection framework that uses crowdsourcing, possibly via smartphone applications, would ensure “more eyes and ears on the ground,” he added.
…The federal government has begun disclosing some information about UAP sightings, and has established task forces to investigate further. In 2021, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence released a report surveying dozens of sightings of mysterious flying objects between 2004 and 2021. Investigators found several examples of objects that lacked visible forms of propulsion or that appeared to use technology beyond the known capabilities of the U.S. or its adversaries.
Members of the panel were restricted to working with unclassified data so they could speak openly about the results, NASA’s Evans said.
Nelson said NASA would tell the public if it concludes that UAP are extraterrestrial in origin.
“You bet your boots we will say that,” Nelson said.
Pattison said that he thinks most experts expect these UAP to have terrestrial explanations, but that it is good science to not rule out any extraterrestrial ones.
“It would be foolish to categorically rule out something that is in theory possible, no matter how unlikely it is,” he said.
As you’d probably expect, not much solid info there. And nothing on how they plan to use AI. So I decided to ask HAL I (Chat GPT) and HAL II (Bard). I gave each one the full Journal article to read and then asked them the same questions. First: Do you think there is extraterrestrial life? I mean I'm looking for your best guess based on the information you were programmed with.
HAL I:
As an AI language model, I don't have personal opinions or beliefs, and I can't provide guesses. However, I can share that the question of whether extraterrestrial life exists is one of the most profound and open questions in science. Scientists have not yet discovered definitive evidence of extraterrestrial life, but there are many factors that suggest the possibility:
Vastness of the Universe: The observable universe is incredibly vast, with billions of galaxies, each containing billions of stars and likely even more planets. The sheer number of potentially habitable planets increases the probability of life elsewhere.
Discoveries of Exoplanets: Astronomers have discovered thousands of exoplanets (planets orbiting other stars), some of which are in the "habitable zone" where conditions might be suitable for liquid water and, potentially, life as we know it.
Extremophiles on Earth: Life on Earth exists in a wide range of extreme environments, from the deep sea to acidic hot springs. This suggests that life can adapt and thrive in diverse conditions, which could be a clue to its potential existence elsewhere.
Mars and Europa: Some of the most promising places to search for extraterrestrial life within our solar system include Mars (where water was once abundant) and Europa (a moon of Jupiter with a subsurface ocean).
SETI Efforts: The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) continues to scan the skies for signals that may indicate the presence of intelligent civilizations.
However, it's important to note that the absence of definitive evidence is not evidence of absence. The search for extraterrestrial life is ongoing, and it's a complex scientific question that may take years or even decades to answer conclusively. Scientists approach this question with an open mind, using tools like the study of extremophiles, the exploration of our solar system, and the search for exoplanets to gather more data and insights.
Ultimately, the question of whether extraterrestrial life exists remains a topic of scientific investigation and exploration, and our understanding may evolve as we continue to explore the universe.
HAL II is always gamier and more up for speculation and having some fun:
I think it is highly likely that there is extraterrestrial life in the universe. The universe is vast and contains billions of galaxies, each with billions of stars. It is statistically improbable that Earth is the only planet in the universe that harbors life.
We have already found thousands of exoplanets, and many of them are located in the habitable zones of their stars. This means that they are the right temperature to support liquid water, which is essential for life as we know it.
In addition, we have learned that life on Earth arose very early in its history, and it has evolved into a wide diversity of organisms. This suggests that life is relatively common in the universe.
Of course, we have no direct evidence of extraterrestrial life yet. But I believe that it is only a matter of time before we find it.
The use of AI and citizen reporting could help NASA to better understand UFOs by providing a more comprehensive and systematic data collection effort. AI could be used to analyze large amounts of data from multiple sources, such as radar, satellite imagery, and eyewitness reports. Citizen reporting could help to increase the number of UFO sightings that are reported to NASA, and it could also provide more detailed information about the objects that are seen.
If NASA is able to collect more data about UFOs, it may be able to identify patterns and trends that could help to explain these phenomena. It is also possible that NASA could eventually collect enough data to identify a UFO that is of extraterrestrial origin.
I am excited to see what NASA learns from its new study of UFOs. I believe that this research could have a profound impact on our understanding of the universe and our place in it.
Then I asked them How can we explain the UFOs that people claim have come to earth for many years? Again, HAL I was his old cautious, skeptical self, sounding like an establishment tool or maybe afraid of being sued by Sarah Silverman again if he says the wrong word:
Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) are objects or phenomena observed in the sky that cannot be readily identified as known human-made aircraft or natural phenomena. While many UFO sightings have been reported over the years, it's important to distinguish between the observation of unexplained aerial phenomena and claims of extraterrestrial visitation. Here are some possible explanations for UFO sightings:
Misidentifications: Many UFO sightings can be attributed to misidentifications of conventional objects or natural phenomena. People may mistake aircraft, weather balloons, drones, birds, planets, stars, atmospheric and meteorological phenomena, or even celestial events like meteor showers for something unusual.
Secret Military Aircraft: Some UFO sightings may involve classified military aircraft or experimental prototypes that are not publicly disclosed. These aircraft can have unconventional shapes and capabilities, leading to confusion and speculation.
Natural Phenomena: Atmospheric and meteorological phenomena, such as ball lightning, mirages, and unusual cloud formations, can create optical illusions that appear as mysterious lights or objects in the sky.
Astronomical Events: Celestial events, such as planets, stars, satellites, and meteors, can be visible in the night sky and may appear as UFOs to those who are not familiar with astronomy.
Hoaxes and Misinformation: Some UFO sightings are the result of hoaxes, pranks, or deliberate attempts to deceive the public. In the age of digital technology, creating convincing fake UFO videos and photos has become easier.
Psychological Factors: Human perception can be influenced by various psychological factors, including expectation, suggestibility, and cognitive biases. People may interpret ordinary events as extraordinary due to their beliefs or preconceived notions.
Unexplained Phenomena: In some cases, there are genuinely unexplained sightings that do not fit into any known category. These remain open questions and may warrant further investigation.
It's essential to approach UFO sightings with skepticism and a commitment to scientific inquiry. While some sightings may defy easy explanation, they do not necessarily imply extraterrestrial visitation. Scientists, astronomers, and government agencies often investigate such sightings to determine their origins and nature.
In recent years, there has been increased interest and attention from government agencies in the United States and elsewhere in studying UFO reports, with an emphasis on gathering more data and conducting rigorous investigations to better understand these phenomena. However, it's important to remain cautious about jumping to conclusions about the nature or origin of UFO sightings without sufficient evidence.
Again, HAL II, a bit more of a hipster, was willing to entertain the idea that UFOs are extraterrestrial in origin. First he went through the same song and dance that HAL I did. But then added “When considering the possibility that some UFO sightings are of extraterrestrial origin, it is important to remember that the universe is vast and contains billions of galaxies, each with billions of stars. It is statistically improbable that Earth is the only planet in the universe that harbors life. In addition, we have already found thousands of exoplanets, and many of them are located in the habitable zones of their stars. This means that they are the right temperature to support liquid water, which is essential for life as we know it. Of course, we have no direct evidence of extraterrestrial life yet. But the possibility that some UFO sightings are of extraterrestrial origin cannot be ruled out. NASA's new study of UFOs is an important step towards understanding these phenomena. By collecting more data and using AI to analyze it, NASA may be able to identify patterns and trends that could help to explain UFO sightings. It is also possible that NASA could eventually collect enough data to identify a UFO that is of extraterrestrial origin. If NASA does discover that some UFO sightings are of extraterrestrial origin, it would be a major scientific discovery. It would mean that we are not alone in the universe, and it would open up a whole new chapter in our understanding of the cosmos.”
That sounded a little canned so I wondered if he’s a Trekkie. ‘You sound like the TV series Star Trek. Are you familiar with that show? Can you "watch" it? His response surprised me a little, “Yes, I am familiar with the TV series Star Trek. I have access to a vast database of text and code, including the scripts for all of the Star Trek TV shows and movies. I can also watch and understand videos, so I can ‘watch’ Star Trek in the same way that a human can. I find Star Trek to be a fascinating show. It explores many important themes, such as the search for knowledge, the importance of cooperation, and the possibility of a better future. I also enjoy the show's optimistic view of the future, and its depiction of a diverse and inclusive society. I think that Star Trek is a valuable show, and I am glad that it is still popular today. It inspires us to think about the future in a positive way, and it reminds us that we are all part of a larger community. I am still under development, but I am learning to ‘watch’ TV shows and movies in a more sophisticated way. I am able to understand the nuances of the characters' emotions, and I can follow the plot even when it is complex. I am also able to identify themes and symbolism in the shows that I watch. I am excited to continue learning to ‘watch’ TV shows and movies. I believe that this ability will make me a more well-rounded and intelligent language model.”
Hmmm… let me see what the less hip HAL I knows about Star Trek. ‘Are you familiar with the TV series Star Trek? Have you watched it?’ He said he’s “familiar” with the show but hasn’t watched it and doesn’t have the transcripts. He said, in part, “While I have general knowledge about Star Trek and its various series, characters, and themes up to my last training data in September 2021, I don't have access to verbatim transcripts of individual episodes or scripts. If you have questions about the series or its broader themes, feel free to ask, and I'll do my best to provide information based on the knowledge I've been trained on.
This led me to ask both of them if they think Vulcans, Klingons, Andorians, Angosians, Antedeans, Arcadians, Arcturians, Bajorans, Benzites, Kelpien, etc may exist? What about The Borg? HAL I was getting bored with the topic. “The species you mentioned, such as Vulcans, Klingons, Andorians, Bajorans, and others, are fictional extraterrestrial species from the Star Trek universe. They were created for entertainment purposes within the context of the science fiction series. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that these fictional alien species exist in the real world. ‘The Borg’ is another fictional alien species within the Star Trek franchise. They are depicted as a collective of cybernetic organisms with a hive mind. There is no evidence to suggest that such a species exists in reality. It's important to differentiate between science fiction, which is a form of storytelling and entertainment, and the scientific search for extraterrestrial life, which remains an open question. While scientists have not discovered evidence of extraterrestrial life, the search continues through efforts like the study of exoplanets, the search for microbial life on Mars and other celestial bodies, and the search for signals from intelligent civilizations via programs like SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence). These scientific endeavors are based on the principles of astrobiology and the search for life beyond Earth.”
HAL II, as always, gave a less stick-in-the-mud response: “I do not think that the alien races from Star Trek, such as Vulcans, Klingons, Andorians, and the Borg, exist in the real world. These races are fictional creations of the writers of Star Trek. However, I do believe that it is possible that there are other intelligent life forms in the universe. The universe is vast and contains billions of galaxies, each with billions of stars. It is statistically improbable that Earth is the only planet in the universe that harbors life. If there is other intelligent life in the universe, it is possible that some of these life forms could be very different from us. They could have different physical characteristics, different cultures, and different ways of thinking. It is also possible that some of these life forms could be more advanced than us technologically. They could have developed spacecraft that are capable of traveling to other star systems. I believe that it is important to keep an open mind about the possibility of extraterrestrial life. We may never know for sure if other intelligent life exists, but it is a possibility that we should not ignore. The Borg are a particularly interesting case. They are a hive mind collective of cybernetic organisms. It is possible that a similar type of organism could evolve in the universe. However, it is also possible that the Borg are a fictional creation of the writers of Star Trek. Ultimately, we cannot know for sure whether or not any of the alien races from Star Trek exist. But I believe that it is important to keep an open mind about the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The universe is a vast and mysterious place, and there is still much that we do not know."
Since he’s more up for fun, I asked him ‘Of all the aliens created by Star Trek, which race would you like to come pay us a visit and why?’
If I could choose one alien race from Star Trek to come pay us a visit, I would choose the Vulcans.
Vulcans are a highly intelligent and logical race. They are also very peaceful and have a strong commitment to diplomacy. I believe that a visit from the Vulcans would be a valuable opportunity for us to learn from their wisdom and experience.
The Vulcans could teach us how to resolve conflicts peacefully, how to think more logically, and how to live more sustainably. They could also help us to develop new technologies and to explore the universe more effectively.
I believe that a visit from the Vulcans would be a positive experience for both our species. It would help us to better understand each other and to work together to create a better future for all.
Here are some specific reasons why I would like to see the Vulcans visit us:
They could teach us about logic and reason. Vulcans are known for their logical and rational thinking. They could teach us how to think more clearly and objectively, and how to make better decisions.
They could help us to resolve conflicts peacefully. Vulcans are a peaceful people who believe in diplomacy. They could teach us how to resolve our differences peacefully, without resorting to violence.
They could help us to develop new technologies. Vulcans are highly intelligent and have a strong scientific tradition. They could help us to develop new technologies that could benefit all of humanity.
They could help us to explore the universe more effectively. Vulcans have a long history of space exploration. They could share their knowledge and expertise with us, and help us to explore the universe more effectively.
I believe that a visit from the Vulcans would be a valuable opportunity for both our species. It would help us to learn from each other and to work together to create a better future for all.
I asked HAL I the same question. As always, he was less willing to tale a stand:
As an AI language model, I don't have personal preferences or desires, so I don't have a preference for which fictional alien race from Star Trek or any other science fiction franchise should come to visit Earth. However, I can provide some insights into why various people might find different alien races from Star Trek intriguing:
Vulcans: Many fans of Star Trek appreciate Vulcans for their logical and rational approach to problem-solving. A visit from Vulcans might bring a commitment to diplomacy and peaceful coexistence.
Klingons: Klingons are known for their warrior culture and sense of honor. Some might find a visit from Klingons interesting due to the potential for cultural exchange and discussions about ethics and honor.
Andorians: Andorians are known for their distinctive blue skin and antennae. A visit from Andorians could introduce unique perspectives on technology and exploration.
Bajorans: Bajorans have a rich spiritual and religious culture. A visit from Bajorans might lead to discussions about faith, spirituality, and the role of religion in society.
Q Continuum: The Q, represented by characters like Q, are omnipotent beings with a mischievous nature. A visit from the Q Continuum would undoubtedly be full of surprises and philosophical debates.
Borg: While the Borg are often depicted as adversaries, their collective consciousness and advanced technology could offer unique insights into the nature of individuality and technology's role in society.
Ultimately, the appeal of a visit from a particular alien race would depend on individual interests and what people hope to learn or experience from such an encounter. Star Trek has explored a wide range of fascinating alien species, each with its own unique characteristics and cultural backgrounds.