The Drake Equation: The Search for Life Beyond Earth 2010
Distributed by Films Media Group, 132 West 31st St., 17th Floor, New York, NY 10001; 800-257-5126
Produced by The Open University
Directed by n/a
DVD, color, 59 min.
Sr. High – General Adult
Physics, Science
Date Entered: 12/21/2011
Reviewed by Brad Eden, Ph.D., Dean of Library Services, Valparaiso UniversityThe Drake equation is a controversial formula proposed by astrophysicist and SETI founder Dr. Frank Drake, which posits that there are more than 10,000 advanced civilizations in the Milky Way galaxy, and millions more in other galaxies. In this video, Dr. Drake himself defends his equation and the science behind it. The second half of the video contains reactions and opinions of the Drake equation by a number of prominent researchers in the fields of planetary science, astrobiology, and biophysics; along with two short interviews, one with Dr. Felisa Wolfe-Simon discussing her "arsenic-eating bacteria" and Dr. Jill Tarter demonstrating the Allen Telescope Array in the SETI project. Overall, this is an information-packed video with some interesting personalities discussing some of the more controversial ideas and projects currently being proposed in the science community.