This is astounding, the clear establishment of high scifi from the outset sets up it beautifully. Your premise is well established and you use it to create this sense on intrigue, that triggers the impulse to skim through to find answers, yet it is so well written, it flows through, and it would be impossibly to tear eyes away to do that. The who and where are these people, who know about the golden record, and are looking at it, is a really strong hook to pull into the story. I never saw leading to it having been sent back, with message of it's own. I would love to see the future instalments (if i've already missed any please let me know, if not, please tag me in them when they are out <3)

The results and next round are out, a very well deserved first place <3 and very much hope you'll have chance for the next round!