Initially, the protocol was adopted in 1989 and has since been revised several times. The new project considers changes in the global information environment and calls for stricter measures for signal verification.
In the event of a potential signal being detected, the researcher must conduct all necessary checks of its authenticity and interact with colleagues. If contact is confirmed by other experts, the information must be made available to the scientific community and the general public, as well as communicated to the UN Secretary-General. All analytical data must be published in scientific journals and presented at relevant conferences.
Scientists working in SETI must also immediately report cases where the alleged signal is not confirmed and clearly designate any unverified theories as hypotheses.
The document requires reliable storage of all data related to potential evidence of the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations in at least two independent repositories located in different countries.
Furthermore, the protocol states that no responses should be made to any detected signals until international consultations involving the UN and other organizations take place. Specific procedures for such consultations should be defined in a separate agreement to ensure a coordinated approach.
The new protocol is currently under discussion and was presented at the International Astronautical Congress 2025, which took place in Sydney.
