original_query: What are some factors that make it difficult to detect signals from extraterrestrial life?
query: What are some factors that make it difficult to detect signals from extraterrestrial life?
answer: Several factors hinder the detection of extraterrestrial signals. These include the vast distances between stars and galaxies, the possibility of signals being weak or using unconventional frequencies, the short duration of detectable transmissions, limitations in the sensitivity and range of Earth's instruments, and the possibility that signals are not directed at Earth.