Home (Very Far) Away from Home

Each day, we are able to discover more Earth-like planets - and with cheaper technology, as well.

How soon will we discover ETs out there?

It is simple. The answer can be found by using the Drake equation:
N = R* × f_p × n_e × f_l × f_i × f_c × L

N is the number of extraterrestrial civilizations in our galaxy with which we might expect to be able to communicate

and

R* is the rate of star formation in our galaxy

f_p is the fraction of those stars which have planets

n_e is average number of planets which can potentially support life per star that has planets

f_l is the fraction of the above which actually go on to develop life

f_i is the fraction of the above which actually go on to develop intelligent life

f_c is the fraction of the above which are willing and able to communicate

L is the expected lifetime of such a civilisation

And the answer is? Enjoy the calculations :)