What will happen when humans discover aliens?

Scientists have only been able to speculate on the outcomes of discovering extra-terrestrial life, drawing from astrobiology, psychology and sociology studies. Detection methods include analysing the atmospheres of exoplanets for biosignatures such as oxygen, methane or carbon dioxide through astronomical instruments such as the James Webb Space Telescope, which can indicate habitability with up to 95 per cent possibility. Local searches are targeting subsurface oceans on ice moons such as Enceladus and Europa, as well as potential underground Martian lakes, where microbial life might persist. Evidence could also come in the form of meteorites bearing organic molecules, or radio signals from intelligent civilisations. 

The least likely route of discovery is via say a physical spaceship captured by any military, which is a nonsensical or at least pseudoscientific scenario unsupported by any evidence. Any potential impact on the market because of the introduction of alien technology is purely speculative. Empirical research indicates that human reactions would likely be positive, based on linguistic analysis in responses to a hypothetical announcement, particularly for microbial discoveries. Short-term effects might include equanimity or delight. Negative reactions such as fear or pandemonium are possible, but less probable for non-threatening finds. 

In the long-term, the discovery of alien life could reshape society and science. Confirmation of life elsewhere could challenge humanity's belief in its uniqueness, prompting revisions in philosophy, religion and worldviews. Depending on cultural and psychological factors, it might foster global unity or heighten perceptions of threats. There are some tough ethical questions to consider here, such as moral obligations to protect alien microbes, or implications for interstellar exploration. If life exists on Mars, even microbial life, then some would argue that Mars belongs to the microbial Martians, and humans have no business colonising the Red Planet. Studies emphasise distinguishing between credible and sensational reporting and pseudoscience. 

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Searches for agnostic biosignatures, or markers of chemical complexity or chemical disequilibrium not tied to the carbon-based biochemistry of Earth expand the detection capabilities. If intelligent life is found, two-way detection becomes relevant. Earth's radio signals could be observable from up to 3,000 lightyears away by advanced civilisations. Overall, the literature suggests that discovery would affirm the predictions of astrobiology, driving technological and cultural shifts, while affirming the ubiquity of life in the universe.