From what I understand about the current thinking in cosmology, the universe came into existence about fourteen billion years ago and our solar system was born about four billion years ago. So, there were probably other solar systems in existence nine or ten billion years before ours. Given that it would likely take a several billion years for the universe to mature enough to produce the heavier elements needed for life to exist, it’s conceivable that other civilizations passed through our phase of development a few billion years ago. If they didn’t destroy themselves or otherwise go extinct, what might their level of consciousness be like? It’s likely way beyond our ability to comprehend.