Published: March 27, 2001

Newly discovered evidence of planets orbiting other stars, and future strategies in the quest for extra-solar planets will be examined during "Is Life Common in the Universe," a live show at the University of Colorado at Boulder's Fiske Planetarium on Friday, April 6, and Tuesday, April 10, at 7:30 p.m.

Astrophysical and planetary sciences Professor John Bally will show the planetarium audience recent observations of newly-forming stars and the planetary systems that are developing around them.

During the show, Bally also will discuss the possibility of sensing biological activity on the surfaces of these newly discovered and extremely distant worlds.

To finish the show, he will delve into speculations about possible signals that might be emitted by hypothetical advanced civilizations.

Fiske Planetarium's monthly live shows give the audience a chance to talk to many CU-Boulder space science experts.

Tickets go on sale at 7 p.m. the night of the show and are $4 for adults and $3 for seniors and children. Fiske Planetarium is located at Regent Drive and Kittredge Loop Drive on the CU-Boulder campus.

For information on upcoming planetarium shows or other programs call (303) 492-5001 or visit the planetarium's Web site at .