I like Drake's equation better than the revised one since the estimate of an alien civilization would range from one to a million--which is really not very specific. But that's probably good enough since we can't be there to verify it anyway.
IMO, the scientists will have to invent an advanced telescope that can probe these exoplanets to the nearest tree top. For example, the light signature from these exoplanets may show the details and clarity by analyzing their effects on subatomic particles present here on earth.
