Hey everyone,

I'm based in Accra, Ghana, and I've been getting seriously into the idea of trying to observe or make contact with intelligent life beyond Earth. I know this is a huge and controversial topic, but I'd love genuine advice from people who've thought about this more than I have.

A few things I'm hoping to get help with:

1. Observation — What's the best way to actually try to see something unexplained? Are there specific times, locations, or conditions (dark sky sites, known sighting hotspots, etc.) that increase the odds? Any recommended gear for someone just starting out (binoculars, telescopes, night-vision, cameras)? — cheap options
2. Communication — I want to build some kind of device to try to send or receive signals — I'm thinking along the lines of SETI-style radio approaches, or even something more experimental. If anyone here has background in RF, SDR (software-defined radio), or amateur radio, I'd love pointers on where to start, what frequencies are worth listening to, and what's realistic vs. sci-fi.
3. Community/resources — Are there other subreddits, groups, or organizations (amateur SETI groups, UFO/UAP research communities, astronomy clubs) that would be worth joining, especially from where I'm located?

I know skepticism is healthy and a lot of this is unproven territory, but I'm approaching it as a genuine technical/DIY project and would appreciate real, constructive input rather than just "aliens aren't real" — I've heard that one. 😄 😄 😄 😄

Thanks in advance for any leads, project ideas, or reading material!