Kuiper Belt Objects as a Distributed Neutrino Detector Network for SETI

Abstract

We propose the concept of a distributed network of neutrino detectors located at Kuiper Belt objects as a possible method for intercepting narrowly collimated neutrino signals from extraterrestrial civilizations. Unlike a single large detector on Earth or Mars, such a network could significantly increase the probability of signal detection due to its large geometric cross-section. Two main cases are considered: extremely narrow beams from gravitational lensing and moderately collimated beams (from 0.01 to 1 AU). Based on current models of the size distribution of Kuiper Belt objects, it is shown that for a beam width of 0.1 AU and objects with D > 2 km, the interception probability reaches ≈ 70%. The inclusion of smaller objects or wider beams increases this probability to almost 100%.