New SETI protocols outline how scientists should verify, share, and respond to potential evidence of alien intelligence in the modern information age.

The moment of first contact with extraterrestrials is a staple of science fiction. It usually involves a frantic scientist having a Eureka moment, realising in a single dramatic instant that Earth is being visited by creatures from light-years away.

She even returned seven years later for the equally celebrated sequel, Aliens — it’s not that surprising that Aliens holds up so well, especially since it was directed by sci-fi savant James Cameron.