What is the name of the project aimed at scanning 1,000 closest stars for microwave signals that might indicate intelligent origins?

The correct answer is Project Phoenix. This project specifically focused on searching for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) by scanning nearby stars for microwave signals that could indicate the presence of intelligent life. Conducted by volunteers and researchers, Project Phoenix was notable for examining a large number of stars with the hope of finding communication signals from advanced civilizations.

Project SETI broadly refers to various initiatives aimed at the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, but Project Phoenix is distinguished for its particular strategy and specific focus on scanning close stars. Project Blue Book, on the other hand, was a U.S. Air Force program that investigated UFO sightings, and Project Hubble pertains to the famous space telescope, rather than any search for intelligent life.