Overview

• 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.