New research suggests that while alien life may exist in our universe, the conditions here may not be the most optimal for its development.

In 1962, American astronomer Frank Drake introduced the Drake Equation, a formula designed to estimate the number of detectable extraterrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way. As Popular Mechanics explains, the equation considers factors such as:

– The average rate of star formation in the galaxy; – The proportion of stars with planetary systems; – The number of planets per star capable of supporting life.

Beyond these, the equation also accounts for the likelihood of intelligent life emerging and developing technology for communication.

In a new study, researchers from Switzerland and the UK explored a specific aspect of the equation—how a fundamental force known as dark energy influences star formation and, in turn, the probability of intelligent life.

The team examined how different densities of dark energy affect the total number of stars formed throughout cosmic history.

Their model not only applies to our universe but also considers hypothetical universes with varying dark energy levels. In simple terms, the research assesses the likelihood of intelligent life across a multiverse.