The search for extraterrestrial life has been a major focus of scientific research for decades. With the discovery of exoplanets in the habitable zone of distant stars, scientists now have more opportunities to study planets that could harbor life. Mars, with its potential for past microbial life, is a prime target for exploration, while moons like Europa and Enceladus may contain subsurface oceans that could support life.
In addition to searching within our solar system, scientists also listen for signals from distant civilizations through programs like SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence). The discovery of alien life would revolutionize our understanding of biology and the universe.