One question I have is that if extraterrestrial life is discovered, what would the communication between scientists, governments, and private funders regarding a potential response look like? As talked about in the interviews, the public perception of science often differs from how scientists actually view these issues. High levels of uncertainty are likely to affect what scientists think is the best response. On the other hand, governments should respond based on what they think will keep citizens the safest. Scientists would have to communicate their limited information effectively to shape government policy.
This is further complexified by the role of private funders in funding extraterrestrial research. Private funders also feel a level of ownership over the project, and would likely want a say in the event that extraterrestrial life is discovered. This third interest may be at odds with both governmental and scientific interests. If extraterrestrial life is discovered, all three parties would have to work together to make the decision that will protect the most people.