Longevity Is the Key Factor in the Search for Technosignatures

Abstract It is well known that the chances of success search for extraterrestrial intelligence depend on longevity technological civilizations or, more broadly, duration signs their existence, or technosignatures. Here, we re-examine this general tenet in detail, and show its broader implications have not been given proper significance. In particular, an often overlooked aspect a technosignature principle almost entirely separable from age civilization produces it. We propose classification scheme technosignatures based duration, use Monte Carlo simulations to that, initial generic distribution Galactic technosignatures, only ones with longest are likely be detected. This tells us, among other things, looking large number short-lived weaker observational strategy than focusing few long-lived ones. also suggests abandoning any anthropocentric bias approaching question intelligence. finally give some ideas possible pathways can lead establishment