Drake Equation Calculator
R * f
p
* n
e
* f
l
* f
i
* f
c
* L = N
R
=
rate at which stars form
f
p
=
fraction of stars that have planetary systems
n
e
=
number of planets, per planetary system, that are suitable for life
f
l
=
fraction of planets suitable for life on which life actually arises
f
i
=
fraction of life-bearing planets where intelligence develops
f
c
=
fraction of planets with intelligent life that develop a technological
phase during which there is capability for and interest in interstellar
communication
L
=
average lifetime of communicable civilizations
N
=
1
number of communicable civilizations in our galaxy
r
=
average distance to nearest civilization
(ly)
(if N < or = 1, r has no meaning)
q
=
birthrate of technological civilizations
(our existence sets a lower limit of 2e-10)
clear all
21 April 2009
Astronomy Program ·
The University of Texas at Austin
· Austin, Texas 78712
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