Scientists are focusing the search for extraterrestrial life within the solar system. There is some evidence to suggest that microbes may exist or may have once existed on Mars.

Some scientists believe that life could exist on Europa, one of Jupiter's moons.

SETI searches for astronomical radio activity.

In 1977 (give or take a year) SETI picked up the famous WOW! Signal. It lasted some 70 seconds (give or take) and was off the charts. So much so that the individual who recorded the signal pointed it out on the print out chart and wrote WOW! in the margin. The signal, nor a radio signal remotely close to it has ever been detected again from that area or any other focus of interest.

See the discussion alien detection! Is it possible!