Alan Shaw: Close encounter with planet Bebo

Oct 17 2008

IS THERE anybody out there? A question that people have been asking for thousands of years, yet still no one knows the answer.

Scientists, astronomers, Mulder and Scully, even Robbie Williams have all been looking for the evidence to prove whether or not we are alone in the universe.

Of course conspiracy theorists, along with Mulder and Robbie, think the little green men have been amongst us for years. Surely though, wed have noticed, as I imagine they wouldnt exactly look inconspicuous.

Last week another attempt was made to send a message from earth to a planet over 20 light years away, called Gliese 581C.

It was chosen as scientists believe it has the best chance of supporting intelligent life. If its that intelligent, Im sure theyll have a better name for their home world than Gliese 581C.

But what did we send them? Scientific information on Earth? Samples of human DNA? A complete history of the universe as we understand it? Er, no. We sent them messages from Bebo. The same website where 12 year-old hoodies pose for photographs parading around with their mums best kitchenware in an attempt to look hard.

Great first impression theyre going to get of life on Earth.

I looked through some of the actual messages sent as well. Pictures of Britains Got Talent winner George Samson with comments like best dancer in the world. Others have sent pictures of McFly, Doctor Who and Theo Paphitis from Dragons Den. Why?

In total, 500 messages have been sent, most of them in the style you would expect from the average Bebo user. And who knows, maybe there is another planet like ours with equally fanatical inhabitants scouring the galaxy for intelligent life.

One thing is for sure though, if they receive any of those messages, theyll more than likely come to the conclusion that there isnt.

Well done to all our winners from last weeks West Sound Radio Awards find out who won what and check the pictures online at www.westfm.co.uk.

I had a great night and Pearl, who was at my table and up for the Good Neighbour award, told me she wasnt bothered about winning as she was just so chuffed to be there. She ended going away with my place card, signed by the MacDonald brothers, along with a picture of Michelle McManus it made her night.

Ill talk to you on the Breakfast Show, Monday to Friday from 6am on 96.7 West FM.