Eric Carpenter
Andy Choo
Anthony John
Dr Juan Lopez
Eric Carpenter – Astronomer
A once highly respected astronomer who specialised in the search for alien life. His theories were respected and he was regarded as an authority on the subject. This recognition however came to an abrupt end, when he reported to the world his discovery of a new planet in the Earth’s solar system. By his calculations it was 50 AUs from the Earth. This brought him recognition and fora while the world was gripped by this discovery.
But as quickly as it appeared, his planet vanished. Nowhere to be seen. Carpenter searched frantically for his planet, but all that could be seen was a small rock with traces of ice and metal, where he thought his new planet to be. All that could be concluded was that this was what he saw all along and he misinterpreted his readings. He was finished as an eminent astronomer.
This fatal mistake earned him some of the worst assignments and this is how he viewed his current time at Big Bear Observatory. Now in his 50s, he is unsure of how his professional life will play out.
Andy Choo – Astronomer
Andy Choo, in his early 30s is twenty years younger than Eric. Whilst at school Andy, heard of Eric’s misfortune during the discovery of the ‘new planet’. But this didn’t deter his determination to become an astronomer. He specialises in the search for alien life outside our solar system and despite Eric’s bad luck, still wanted to work with him at the Big Bear Observatory. His personal goal is to “explore” all the civilisations determined by the Drake Equation; which was still valid hundreds of years after the death of its creator Dr Frank Drake. Dr Drake’s heavy involvement with SETI in the late 20th century shaped the beliefs of many alien hunters such as Andy.
Andy’s thesis comprised ten thousand words all devoted to Dr Drake’s formula:
N = R* × fp × ne × fl × fi × fc × L
Where:
N = number of communicative civilisations
R* = rate of formation of suitable stars
fp = fraction of those stars with planets
ne = number of “Earths” per planetary system
fl = fraction of those planets where life develops
fi = fraction life sites where intelligence develops
fc = fraction of planets where technology develops
L = “Lifetime” of communicating civilisations
Anthony John – NewsReal Reporter
Anthony John is the global face of the news. He works for the NewsReal broadcasting organisation and almost everyone will see any big breaking news story delivered by Anthony John
Dr Juan Lopez
Head of Extra Terrestrial Threats, JÖRD. In his 50s, an excellent scientist. Expert in the workings of the SETI (Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence) and the Drake equation. A supporter of Eric Carpenter throughout his career.
What is Project (M)Earth? 