Extending the Loeb Scale to the Search for Extraterrestrial Artificial Intelligence (SETAI)

Structure of the extension of the Loeb Classification Scale. Step 1 determines whether the record about an anomalous object can support inferences about its control; Step 2 uses the existing Loeb Scale unchanged; Step 3 asks which reference control architectures are compatible with the data record on the object. The exclusions are made in three tests (T1–T3), and the result is reported on the SETAI Control Scale along with an origin flag and the evidence profile. (Image credit: V. Duran, O. Eldadi & A. Loeb 2026)As discussed in my recent essays here and here, the Search for Extraterrestrial Artificial Intelligence (SETAI) suggests that, if the shift from biological to machine cognition is widespread and rapid for other technological civilizations on exoplanets, most detectable alien technology is no longer under the control of its biological creators.The Loeb Classification Scale, discussed here, here and here, classifies the significance of interstellar-object (ISO) anomalies that flag potential technological signatures, but does not identify what controls an object. In a new paper that I co-authored with the brilliant Volkan Duran and Omer Eldadi, posted here, we propose an extension of the Loeb Scale that addresses three questions:(i) Does the data record on the anomalous object allow any inference of control?(ii) Does the object reach the technological signature levels of the Loeb Scale?(iii) Which of three reference architectures (biological direction, scripted automation, or adaptive autonomy) remain compatible with the record?The answers are reported on a four-level SETAI Control Scale (C0 to C3) for a specified control level and time window, with an origin flag and an evidence profile. Three tests implement the exclusions: timing bounds set by signal travel and organismal reaction, operating envelope, and a disruption–response model grounded in team cognition and team communication research. A fourth test addresses engineered (synthetic) biology. The last tw