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[–] 3930401? 0 points 11 points (+11|-0) ago  (edited ago)

Based on what we believe we know about technology, a structure like that would emit radiation in the infrared range, which would be detectable, even when the object isn't blocking our view of the star. Of course, it is possible that this is some form of technology that we currently cannot recognize, which wouldn't emit radiation. On the other hand, it could also be a small black hole that is either within that system, or moving on a course somewhere between us and the star that keeps it in line with that star from our view.

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[–] Codewow 0 points 11 points (+11|-0) ago 

Maybe aliens have learned how to harness radiation to use as power as well. We only use radiation for heat right now.

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[–] Gake_The_Cake 0 points 5 points (+5|-0) ago 

Light is radiation...

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[–] b0ard2death 1 point 5 points (+6|-1) ago  (edited ago)

Interesting possibility, it definitely seems like it should possible.

I know it's off topic, but this is why I love Voat. These exchanges right here.

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[–] revofire 0 points 3 points (+3|-0) ago 

Yes but as astronomers (scientists) they can't just say 'alien technology'. We may be right in our thinking but they aren't allowed to say super advanced alien technology. It's all or nothing. Either they admit, they don't know and won't know for a while or they are fairly certain of something and explain it.

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[–] The_Cat 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

That's what the Dyson sphere is... It harnesses radiation from the star to use as power. And it will radiate away waste heat in the infrared range. There's no way around that, no matter how advanced your technology is, you can't beat the second law of thermodynamics.

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[–] nicethingyoucanthave 0 points 6 points (+6|-0) ago 

a structure like that would emit radiation in the infrared range,

It doesn't necessarily have to radiate in all directions though. Moving energy around is what civilizations do. Maybe their power stations or their heat exchangers are at the poles, and we're viewing the system on edge.

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[–] The_Cat ago 

Possible, though if you want to cool such a massive structure in the vacuum of space, you'd probably want to radiate away waste heat all over so your equator doesn't melt.

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[–] sadam029 ago 

How can something radiate without going in all directions?