In addition to satirizing The X-Files (1993), this episode makes a subtle jab at the Star Trek Franchise. When Matheson says "There are probably some who'll say that by doing this, we are interfering with their culture," he is referencing the Prime Directive. This franchise has mocked the Prime Directive before, in Acts of Sacrifice (1995).
The home planet of the aliens in the Eridani sector is almost exactly like Earth: the continent shown as the info-laden probes descend is North America with a few adjustments.
This takes place from May 13 to May 14, 2267.