I certainly hope I see the day when this happens. It would be the greatest discovery and would dominate headlines and conversations everywhere. I can just see everyone on this site going nuts with posting their thoughts.

I personally don't think it would cause mass hysteria or public disorder. If anything, it should unite people from all over the world. For once, people from all over the world will have a feeling of being on the same side. It should also provide the motivation and increased funding needed to advance our space programs drastically.

This topic makes for great discussion because it spawns many other questions such as:

Should we attempt a response or wait? Why or why not?

If yes, what should our response be?