The origins of life in our galaxy and the search for alien life outside our solar system will be at the forefront of discussions by experts in Edinburgh.
The scientists are gathering at Edinburgh's Royal Observatory for this year's annual workshop, which runs from Wednesday until Friday.
Members of the public will also hear about some of the research in this year's public talk, 'Are We Alone?'.
More: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/edinburgh_and_east/7658797.stm
Messages have been sent to a planet 20 light years from Earth in the hope they will reach intelligent alien life.
Some 501 photos, drawings and text messages were transmitted on Thursday by a giant radio-telescope in Ukraine normally used to track asteroids.
The target planet was chosen as it is thought capable of supporting life.
More: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7660449.stm