New Theory Suggests Magnetar Flare Behind 1977's Mysterious 'Wow!' Signal

Astrophysicists propose a rare cosmic event involving a magnetar and hydrogen cloud as the source of the enigmatic radio burst.

The 'Wow!' signal was detected by the Big Ear telescope at Ohio State University in 1977.
Astronomers have long speculated the signal might indicate extraterrestrial communication.
New research suggests a magnetar flare hitting a hydrogen cloud could explain the signal.
Archival data from the Arecibo Observatory shows similar signals detected between February and May 2020.
Some experts remain skeptical, citing the rarity and specificity of the proposed phenomenon.