[Scarlett.]

Hartwig Hausdorf, a German academic, believes that the reason Voyager 2, an unmanned probe that has been in space since 1977, is sending strange messages that are confusing scientists, is because it has been taken over by extraterrestrial life.

Since its launch, Voyager 2 has been sending streams of data back to Earth for study by scientists, but on April 22, 2010, that stream of information suddenly changed.

Nasa claimed that a software problem with the flight data system was the cause but Mr Hausdorf believes it could be the work of aliens.

This is because all other parts of the spacecraft appear to be functioning fine.

He told the German newspaper Bild: "It seems almost as if someone has reprogrammed or hijacked the probe – thus perhaps we do not yet know the whole truth.”

Voyager 2 carries a disk with greetings in 55 languages on it in case the craft encounters other life forms.

Dr Edward Stone, a scientist on the project, said the desk, called the Golden Record, is "a kind of time capsule, intended to communicate a story of our world to extraterrestrials.

"The Voyager message is carried by a phonograph record-a 12-inch gold-plated copper disk containing sounds and images selected to portray the diversity of life and culture on Earth."

Telegraph

[setanta]

I've often wondered if I'd be alive when we finally make contact with another intelligent form of life. It would be so great if it were true.

[Mark]

Either that or a 30 year old spacecraft that's billions of miles from earth has finally malfunctioned

[Scarlett.]

I'd rather go with the aliens idea

[James]

It would be easier for the aliens just to come here if they want to make contact (unless they are trying to test us or something ).

[Ramsay]

Originally Posted by Mark

Either that or a 30 year old spacecraft that's billions of miles from earth has finally malfunctioned

exactly what i was thinking

[Shasown]

Why would any form of intelligent life want to take over a floating pile of space junk, fitted with what amounts to little more than an old fashioned record player and loudspeaker? If they wanted to send us messages wouldnt they have better kit than that?

[James]

Just occured to me that this was basically the plot of the first Star Trek film.

[Callum]

Interesting theory, would be cool if it were true. I would love it if aliens came down to Earth and started socialing with us, to be honest in about 100 years time I wouldn't be surprised if that was happening.