The Sky at Night 13 Mar 2010 14:15 - 14:55 BBC Two
Life Is there anything living on extra-solar planets and if so, is it intelligent?
Half a century ago, scientists were speculating about the possibility of planets outside our solar system. Since then over 400 such extra-solar planets have been discovered. Is there anything living on them and if so, is it intelligent? Sir Patrick Moore debates the question of life in the universe with today's planet hunters and astrobiologists, while at the Royal Society Dr Chris Lintott searches for evidence of alien life.
BBC The Sky at Night hosted by the living legend Sir Patrick Moore Sir Patrick still refers to himself as an amateur astronomer even though he has hosted more TV shows and documentaries than many a professional thespian. He is known for donating his time to anyone who wants to know about astronomy - even giving out his home phone number if someone is stuck for advice. This months edition (1992) is about the gas giants and their moons, including a flight across the surface of Miranda.
Herschel in the Red Patrick Moore discusses what Herschel, Europe's biggest and most expensive space satellite, will do once it begins its infrared exploration of the universe. Dr Chris Lintott gets a rare chance to see the Herschel mirror, which at 3.5 metres will be the biggest astronomical mirror ever to be sent into space.