Finally, proof that we are not alone.

After years of searching scientists have, they say, now discovered an exo-planet around the star Gliese 581 that has the right size and orbit to have both an atmosphere and liquid water.

Having found this one potentially life supporting planet, its probable that the floodgates will open to reveal many more. Its not too much of a stretch to imagine at least simple life forms being common place throughout the galaxy.

The bad news is that Gliese 581 is 20 light years away – so once we’re done messing up our own planet there isnt much hope for starting on this one.