re: Astronomers may have found giant alien 'megastructures' orbiting star

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Wouldn't you have to have some previous data in order to expect what an alien civilization may or may not build?

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Because we have some idea that most species wish to control their environment. It's more about detecting how much they've managed to control their environment and utilize mass amounts of energy that we're looking for. There are 4 types of civilizations that are out there.

Type 0: This is us. Pretty much only radio waves sent from these planets can be can be known, but they have to be close before they get so spread out that it's nothing but interstellar fuzz.
Type 1: Have mastered their planet entirely and can manipulate it. Buck Rodgers is an example of this.
Type 2: Have mastered their star and solar system and can manipulate it for its energy. This is what level they're talking about in the article. Star Trek would be an example of this type of civilization.
Type 3: Have mastered the Galaxy. Star Wars is an example of this.