Uncertain Worlds: Rethinking the Drake Equation and Earth's Uniqueness (DRAKE)












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            Number: MA/25/F4/0/021

            Flagship: 4 - Environmental transitions
            Faculty: PřF
            Project leader: Toman, Jan

            The Drake Equation, formulated in 1961, remains one of the most well-known attempts to est
            of present-day communicating civilizations in our galaxy. Yet, its predictions can vary dr
            depending on how the terms are defined or combined, as well as on the expertise and person

            those making the estimates. The DRAKE project addresses this gap through an online questio
            investigating how these factors influence the outcomes and using the findings to reflect o

            and fragility of life on Earth. By linking astronomical inquiry with the concept of planet
            the project also underscores pressing environmental challenges, drawing parallels between 
            conditions for life and the need for sustainable stewardship of our own planet.


            In collaboration with partners from the University of Copenhagen and Sorbonne University, 
            integrates perspectives from biology, astronomy, philosophy, and science education. It com

            research with public engagement, organizing a workshop in Prague, bilateral visits, and pa
            in international conferences such as EANA 2025. The study’s results will inform a dedicate
            toolkit—comprising talks, teaching materials, presentations, and interactive activities—de

            interdisciplinary thinking and critical reflection on humanity’s place in the cosmos. Publ
            be supported through online releases of workshop recordings and activities timed with even
            Space Week.


            Expected outputs include at least one peer-reviewed publication in an impact-factor journa
            at international conferences, and the release of the educational toolkit for use across Eu

            exploring how scientific framing and evaluator bias affect probability estimates of extrat
            life, the project will refine a widely known scientific concept while advancing public und
            of sustainability and resilience. In doing so, DRAKE not only strengthens interdisciplinar

            between European institutions but also equips the next generation with the tools to think 
            the future of life—both beyond Earth and on our own fragile planet.