Are We Alone?

Astronomers bet no

Astronomers say they are on the verge of finding planets with life on it, finally
finding out if we are alone in the universe. NASA says that within 4-5 years, they should
find a planet where life could develop or already has, and they may find a planet close to
Earth’s size if the new space telescope works. NASA’s Kepler telescope may the final
key to answering the question that has avoided humanity since the beginning of
civilization, “Are we alone”? So far, new planets are being found daily thanks to the
Kepler telescope, but none have the right components for life. Simon “Pete” Worden said
“I would certainly expect in the next four to five years we’d have an Earth sized planet in
the habitable zone. In my opinion, the Kepler telescope is a great undertaking and I’m
very excited to see if we ever find a planet with life on it. However, Scientists say they
are looking for a planet with the “right components for life”. Who defines what those are?
Just because we need food, water, and air, doesn’t mean everything in the universe does
as well, but finding a planet with the right components for life would greatly increase the
chances there is life on that planet.

Questions:

1) Do you agree with NASA directing the Kepler telescope, or should money be
spent for getting humans into space? Why?

2) What do you think would be mankind’s first steps if we discovered a planet with a
civilized population?

3) What is your opinion on the question “Are We Alone?” Why?