Space, the final frontier, has inspired countless artists, from classic rock bands to pop icons, to create music that captures the awe and mystery of the cosmos. While the concept of "space" can evoke images of vast emptiness or the thrill of exploration, it also serves as a powerful metaphor for themes of longing, isolation, and the yearning for something beyond our reach. From the iconic countdown to the extraterrestrial encounters, musicians have woven tales of celestial journeys and cosmic reflections into their music, creating a captivating soundtrack for our own personal voyages through the vastness of space.
This list celebrates the diversity of musical styles that have touched upon the theme of space, offering a journey through sonic landscapes as diverse as the constellations themselves. Whether you're a seasoned space enthusiast or simply seeking new sonic experiences, this list provides a gateway to musical masterpieces that resonate with the boundless potential of the universe.
Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. The Final Countdown | Europe | The Final Countdown (Expanded Edition) | 1986 | 1B+ |
2. E.T | Katy Perry | Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection | 2010 | 692M+ |
3. Space Bound | Eminem | 2010 | 362M+ | |
4. Black Hole Sun | Soundgarden | The Outlaws | 1994 | 264M+ |
5. Fly Me To The Moon |
Count Basie Frank Sinatra | Sinatra/Basie: The Complete Reprise Studio Recordings | 1964 | 175M+ |
6. Rocket Man | Elton John | Honky Chateau | 1972 | 152M+ |
7. Space Oddity | David Bowie | David Bowie (aka Space Oddity) [2015 Remaster] | 1969 | 129M+ |
1. The Final Countdown - The Final Countdown (Expanded Edition)
The final countdown ”
Song information
ArtistEurope | Release1986 |
Time04:57 | View1B+ |
Likes 7M+ | SuitableRock Fans |
AlbumThe Final Countdown (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify |
- Europe
- Epic
- Space
- Rocket
- Countdown
"The Final Countdown" by Europe is a musical journey that evokes the thrill and uncertainty of space exploration. The song paints a picture of humanity leaving a troubled Earth, seeking a new beginning among the stars. The lyrics capture this sense of departure with lines like "We're leaving together, but still it's farewell" and "Leaving ground, leaving ground, will things ever be the same again?" The repetitive "final countdown" refrain adds to the sense of urgency and the unknown that lies ahead.
Musically, "The Final Countdown" is a masterpiece of synth-driven rock. The soaring, dramatic keyboard riff, reminiscent of a spaceship launching into the cosmos, is instantly recognizable and instantly captivating. The powerful vocals and driving rhythm further enhance the sense of epic adventure, while the song's grandiosity and soaring melodies evoke a feeling of awe and wonder. "The Final Countdown" is a powerful testament to the human spirit's yearning for the unknown and the possibility of finding a new home among the stars.
2. E.T (Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection)
A different dimension ”
Song information
ArtistKaty Perry | Release2010 |
Time05:02 | View692M+ |
Likes 4M+ | SuitablePop music lovers |
AlbumTeenage Dream: The Complete ConfectionListen on Spotify |
- Upbeat Rhythm
- Ethereal Vocals
- Katy Perry
- Alien love story
"E.T" by Katy Perry transports listeners to a realm of otherworldly love and cosmic connection. The song dives into the fascination of extraterrestrial life, exploring the potential for love beyond Earthly boundaries. Perry's lyrics paint a vivid picture of an alien encounter, with lines like "You're the only one I want, you're the only one I need" expressing the yearning for a connection that transcends physical limitations. The song's futuristic sound, punctuated by electronic synths and Kanye West's dynamic rap verses, creates a sense of futuristic grandeur and alien intrigue.
The song's music video further amplifies the space theme, showcasing Perry as an otherworldly being navigating a desolate, futuristic landscape. The video's blend of sci-fi imagery and dramatic visuals enhances the song's emotional impact, leaving listeners with a sense of awe and wonder at the possibility of cosmic love and the boundless expanse of the universe. "E.T" serves as a testament to the power of music to transport listeners to fantastical realms, leaving them with a lingering feeling of curiosity and wonder about the mysteries that lie beyond our planet.
3. Space Bound
We clutch, it isn't much ”
Song information
ArtistEminem | Release2010 |
Time04:25 | View362M+ |
Likes 2M+ | SuitableEnglish Speakers |
- Hip-Hop Lovers
- Eminem
- Rap Enthusiasts
- Lyrical Geniuses
- Storytelling Masters
Eminem's 'Space Bound' takes listeners on a journey through the tumultuous landscape of love and heartbreak, using the vastness of space as a powerful metaphor. The song opens with a driving beat and a melancholic melody, setting the stage for a story of intense longing and ultimately, devastating loss. Eminem's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love so consuming it feels like a rocket ship hurtling towards its destination – the beloved, represented by the moon. He raps, "I'm a rocket ship, headed straight for you," evoking the irresistible force of his love and the feeling of being lost in its orbit.
The music itself complements the space theme, with its dramatic instrumental build-ups and electronic soundscapes creating a sense of both grandeur and vulnerability. The listener feels the emotional weight of the journey alongside Eminem, experiencing the high highs of love and the crushing lows of rejection. Ultimately, 'Space Bound' leaves a lasting impression of the raw and unpredictable power of love, its beauty and its pain, captured in the vast, unknowable expanse of space.
4. Black Hole Sun
In disguises no one knows ”
Song information
ArtistSoundgarden | Release1994 |
Time05:21 | View264M+ |
Likes 2M+ | SuitableN/a |
AlbumThe OutlawsListen on Spotify |
Released in 1994, Soundgarden's "Black Hole Sun" is a mesmerizing journey into the cosmic unknown. The song, a Grammy Award winner for Best Hard Rock Performance, explores the vastness and mystery of space through its haunting lyrics and captivating music. Cornell's lyrics paint a picture of a world swallowed by darkness, with lines like "Black hole sun, won't you come," and "The words I said, I never meant," echoing the feelings of isolation and despair often associated with the vast emptiness of space.
Musically, "Black Hole Sun" uses soaring melodies, heavy guitar riffs, and a swirling, dissonant soundscape to create a sense of otherworldly dread. The song's distinctive, almost hypnotic feel, along with the use of a Leslie speaker, adds to the ethereal, unsettling atmosphere. "Black Hole Sun" ultimately leaves the listener with a sense of awe and trepidation, reminding us of the profound mysteries and potential dangers lurking beyond our understanding.
5. Fly Me To The Moon (Count Basie ft Frank Sinatra)
Let me play among the stars ”
Song information
ArtistCount Basie, Frank Sinatra | Release1964 |
Time02:28 | View175M+ |
Likes 2M+ | Suitablemelómanos |
AlbumSinatra/Basie: The Complete Reprise Studio RecordingsListen on Spotify |
- Jazz Standard
- Swing
- Lounge Music
- Count Basie
- Frank Sinatra
"Fly Me to the Moon" as performed by Frank Sinatra with Count Basie and his orchestra, transcends a simple love song to become an anthem of human yearning for the cosmos. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of escape from Earth's confines, longing for a journey "in other spheres." Sinatra's smooth vocals convey a sense of wonder and anticipation as he sings of "floating in a most peculiar way," evoking the weightlessness of space travel.
The song's jazz arrangement, with its soaring melodies and swinging rhythm, further enhances the cosmic theme. The instrumental interplay between Sinatra's vocals and the big band creates a sense of grandeur and otherworldly atmosphere. This arrangement, along with the song's popularity during the Apollo missions, has cemented "Fly Me to the Moon" as a quintessential soundtrack for space exploration and the eternal human desire to reach for the stars.
6. Rocket Man
'Til touchdown brings me 'round again to find ”
Song information
ArtistElton John | Release1972 |
Time04:43 | View152M+ |
Likes 1M+ | SuitableAmantes de la ciencia ficción |
AlbumHonky ChateauListen on Spotify |
- Emotional Ballad
- Nostalgic Ballad
- Love and Loss
- Space Odyssey
- Elton John
'Rocket Man' by Elton John is more than just a song; it's a powerful exploration of isolation and the vastness of space, capturing the poignant longing for home while venturing into the unknown. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an astronaut, a "rocket man" detached from Earth, yearning for connection. Lines like "I miss the Earth so much, I miss my wife / It's lonely out in space on such a timeless flight" express the profound sense of detachment and isolation that comes with venturing beyond our planet.
Elton John's music complements the lyrical narrative beautifully. The song's soaring melodies, driven by a dramatic piano and string arrangement, create a sense of grandeur and otherworldly atmosphere. The music's dynamic shifts, from the introspective verses to the powerful chorus, mirror the emotional journey of the astronaut, evoking a sense of both awe and melancholy. The repetition of "a long, long time" emphasizes the vastness of space and the duration of the astronaut's journey, leaving listeners with a lingering feeling of wonder and a touch of sadness.
7. Space Oddity
Ground Control to Major Tom ”
Song information
ArtistDavid Bowie | Release1969 |
Time05:05 | View129M+ |
Likes 1M+ | SuitableScience Fiction Enthusiasts |
AlbumDavid Bowie (aka Space Oddity) [2015 Remaster]Listen on Spotify |
- David Bowie
- Space Exploration
- Ground Control
"Space Oddity" by David Bowie is not only a timeless classic but also a pivotal moment in the evolution of his musical career. The song, released in July 1969, the same month as the moon landing, explores the profound themes of isolation, alienation, and the longing for connection in the vast expanse of space.
The song, characterized by its ethereal folk-rock style, is a captivating narrative of Major Tom, a fictional astronaut who detaches from Earth and drifts into the cosmic unknown. Bowie's poignant lyrics, "Ground Control to Major Tom, Commencing countdown, engines on," transport listeners to a thrilling journey into space. The song's mesmerizing melody, punctuated by a melancholic trumpet solo, creates a sense of cosmic wonder and melancholic beauty. Through the song, Bowie masterfully captures the awe, wonder, and fear associated with space exploration while reflecting on the complexities of human connection and the search for meaning in a vast universe.
8. Intergalactic - Hello Nasty (Deluxe Edition/Remastered)
You stick around, I'll make it worth your while ”
Song information
ArtistBeastie Boys | Release1998 |
Time04:35 | View99M+ |
Likes 753K+ | SuitableTeenagers |
AlbumHello Nasty (Deluxe Edition/Remastered)Listen on Spotify |
- Hip-Hop
- Electronic
- Rap
- Beastie Boys
"Intergalactic" by the Beastie Boys, while not solely focused on a specific celestial body like the moon or Mars, embodies the vastness and exploration of space in its entirety. The song's futuristic sound, a blend of hip-hop and electronic music, immediately transports listeners to an otherworldly realm. This is achieved through soaring melodies, echoing synth lines, and the rhythmic propulsion of the drumbeat, creating a sense of cosmic travel and discovery.
The lyrics, with lines like "I'm on a mission from God," and "Check it out, it's intergalactic," evoke a sense of cosmic journey and exploration. The song's repetitive chorus, featuring a robotic voice chanting "Intergalactic" further reinforces the feeling of being lost in the vastness of space, while the lyrics weave a narrative of a spaceship traveling through the cosmos. The Beastie Boys' energetic delivery, coupled with the infectious groove, invites listeners to join their interstellar voyage, leaving a lasting impression of awe and wonder.
9. Supermassive Black Hole (Black Holes and Revelations)
Glaciers melting in the dead of night ”
Song information
ArtistMuse | Release2006 |
Time03:31 | View81M+ |
Likes 528K+ | SuitableRock fans |
AlbumBlack Holes and RevelationsListen on Spotify |
- Alternative rock
- Rock Anthem
- Space Odyssey
- Electronic rock
- Space Rock
'Supermassive Black Hole' by Muse is a sonic journey through the awe-inspiring and terrifying vastness of space. The song paints a vivid picture of a cosmic dance around a supermassive black hole, a powerful force that both attracts and repels. The lyrics, like "Galaxies collide," "Everything is falling," and "The space is closing in" evoke a sense of both wonder and fear, as if witnessing the universe in its most chaotic and breathtaking state.
Muse masterfully uses their signature blend of powerful rock anthems and electronic soundscapes to create a truly cosmic experience. The song's driving rhythm and soaring melodies, punctuated by heavy guitar riffs and synth-laden breakdowns, mimic the energy and intensity of a celestial event. It's as if you're being pulled into the swirling vortex of a black hole, surrounded by the infinite possibilities and the unknown dangers of space.
10. Major Tom
Drifting, falling ”
Song information
ArtistPeter Schilling | Release1983 |
Time04:06 | View72M+ |
Likes 616K+ | SuitableSpace Enthusiasts |
- Space Odyssey
- Ground Control
- Cosmic Adventure
- Peter Schilling
In a world dominated by upbeat electronic tracks, 'Major Tom (Coming Home)' by Peter Schilling emerged as a powerful anthem of space exploration and cosmic solitude. It picks up where David Bowie's "Space Oddity" left off, delving into the psychological journey of Major Tom as he ventures further into the vastness of space.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of detachment and weightlessness, capturing the awe and isolation of being adrift in the cosmos. Phrases like "Earth below us drifting, falling, floating weightless" and "across the stratosphere a final message" create a sense of distance and impending loss. Schilling's soaring vocals, coupled with the song's dramatic synth and electronic elements, evoke a sense of grandeur and otherworldly mystery. The music builds to a crescendo as Major Tom's emotional journey culminates in a chilling realization of his isolation and the haunting beauty of the universe. 'Major Tom (Coming Home)' remains a timeless testament to the human fascination with space and the profound experiences that can accompany venturing beyond our familiar world.
11. Space Oddity
I'm stepping through the door ”
Song information
ArtistChris Hadfield | Release2013 |
Time05:31 | View55M+ |
Likes 1M+ | SuitableSpace Enthusiasts |
- David Bowie
- Journey
- Space Exploration
- Astronaut
- Cosmic
With its gentle acoustic guitar and Chris Hadfield's warm, soulful vocals, "Space Oddity" transcends a simple cover to become a powerful anthem for space exploration. Hadfield's rendition, recorded while orbiting Earth aboard the International Space Station, encapsulates the awe and wonder of venturing into the cosmos. The song's lyrics, originally penned by David Bowie, resonate with a newfound depth, evoking images of isolation and the boundless expanse of space.
Lines like "ground control to Major Tom" and "Planet Earth is blue, and there's nothing I can do" take on a poignant meaning when sung from the perspective of an astronaut, a man truly detached from Earth's familiar embrace. The music itself, with its simple yet stirring melodies and echoing harmonies, creates an atmosphere of quiet contemplation, reflecting the profound emotions of venturing beyond the confines of our planet. Hadfield's "Space Oddity" evokes a sense of both exhilaration and melancholy, the thrill of discovery intertwined with the longing for home. It's a song that speaks to the yearning for the unknown, the desire to push the boundaries of human achievement, and the profound connection between humanity and the vastness of space.
12. Life on Mars? (David Bowie - 1970)
Oh man! Look at those cavemen go ”
Song information
ArtistDavid Bowie | Release1971 |
Time04:10 | View48M+ |
Likes 420K+ | SuitableN/a |
AlbumHunky Dory (2015 Remaster)Listen on Spotify |
Have you ever wondered what lies beyond the familiar stars? David Bowie's "Life on Mars?" is a timeless masterpiece that takes us on a journey of cosmic contemplation, questioning the very nature of life itself. The song, a poignant reflection on the search for meaning and connection, delves into the vastness of space as a metaphor for the existential loneliness experienced by humanity.
Bowie's lyrics paint a picture of a world yearning for something more, something beyond the mundane. Lines like "Is there life on Mars?" and "I've got questions and I need answers" spark a sense of wonder and curiosity about the universe and our place within it. The song's soaring melodies, driven by Mick Ronson's stirring guitar and strings, evoke a feeling of both hope and melancholy, mirroring the complex emotions associated with the pursuit of answers to life's mysteries. "Life on Mars?" invites us to contemplate the possibility of life beyond Earth, while simultaneously reminding us of the beauty and fragility of our own existence.
13. Spaceman (The Killers - 1970)
Next thing I knew they ripped me from my bed ”
Song information
ArtistThe Killers | Release2008 |
Time04:46 | View46M+ |
Likes 146K+ | SuitableIndie Music Enthusiasts |
- Rock Ballad
- Nostalgic
- Introspective
- The Killers
- Mellow
"Spaceman" by The Killers takes listeners on a journey through the depths of mental turmoil, disguised as a captivating space exploration. The song's lyrical exploration of a failed suicide attempt, disguised as an alien abduction narrative, transcends the literal space theme, delving into the darkness of depression and the internal struggles of the protagonist.
The music itself reflects this duality. The song's soaring melodies and dramatic instrumentation evoke a sense of cosmic grandeur, while the lyrics reveal a painful struggle against a deeply personal battle. Lines like "They left a strange impression in my head" and "You know that I was hoping that I could leave this star-crossed world behind," paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's internal turmoil, cleverly mirrored by the imagery of space travel and extraterrestrial encounters. This juxtaposition of the cosmic and the personal creates a truly unique and poignant experience, making "Spaceman" stand out as a deeply moving exploration of the human condition, not simply a song about space.
14. Walking On The Moon (1979)
Walking on the moon ”
Song information
ArtistThe Police | Release1979 |
Time04:44 | View45M+ |
Likes 250K+ | SuitableRock Enthusiasts |
AlbumReggatta De Blanc (Remastered 2003)Listen on Spotify |
- Classic rock
- Progressive Rock
- The Police
- Space Rock
While many artists have captured the wonder and mystery of space in their music, "Walking on the Moon" by The Police stands out for its unique combination of lyrical imagery, musical atmosphere, and emotional resonance.
The song doesn't simply describe the moon; it evokes a feeling of weightlessness and freedom, a sense of being "relieved of gravity." Lyrics like "Giant steps are what you take / Walking on the moon / I hope my legs don't break / Walking on the moon" paint a vivid picture of this experience, while the repetitive phrase "Walking on the moon" creates a hypnotic effect, pulling listeners into the song's dreamlike state. The Police's distinctive sound, blending reggae rhythms with soaring melodies and Sting's expressive vocals, further enhances the song's ethereal atmosphere. "Walking on the Moon" ultimately evokes a feeling of pure joy and exhilaration, suggesting the boundless possibilities of space exploration and the potential for liberation that comes with stepping outside our earthly confines.
15. Man on the Moon
If you believe there's nothing up his sleeve, then nothing is cool ”
Song information
ArtistR.E.M. | Release1992 |
Time04:52 | View45M+ |
Likes 216K+ | SuitableIndie Rock Fans |
- 90s Alternative
- Dream pop
- R.E.M.
- College Rock
"Man on the Moon" by R.E.M. is more than just a song; it's a poignant reflection on the vastness of space and the mysteries it holds. While the song's lyrics directly reference Andy Kaufman, a comedian known for his eccentric performances, the theme of space subtly weaves through the narrative, creating a powerful sense of wonder and longing.
The lyrics evoke a feeling of isolation and the unknown, mirroring the vast emptiness of outer space. The phrase "man on the moon" itself is a reference to the moon landing conspiracy theories, suggesting that even in a world of seemingly definitive answers, there's always room for doubt and speculation. The song's haunting melody, driven by a driving bassline and shimmering guitar work, creates a hypnotic atmosphere, reminiscent of a journey into the vastness of space. The music's slow, deliberate pace allows the listener to contemplate the mysteries of the universe, evoking a sense of awe and humility in the face of the unknown.
16. Across the Universe (The Beatles - 1970)
They slither while they pass, they slip away across the universe ”
Song information
ArtistThe Beatles | Release1969 |
Time03:49 | View31M+ |
Likes 248K+ | SuitableBeatles Fans |
- Love song
- The Beatles
- Psychedelic Rock
- Pop Rock Ballad
With its gentle rhythms and the acoustic strumming of a guitar, "Across the Universe" by The Beatles transports listeners to a realm of cosmic wonder. The song's ethereal melody, driven by a dreamy acoustic guitar and delicate harmonies, creates an atmosphere of peaceful contemplation, perfectly setting the stage for Lennon's poetic lyrics. "Across the Universe" explores the vastness and mystery of space, evoking a sense of awe and longing for something beyond our earthly limitations.
Lennon's words paint vivid pictures of a universe teeming with possibilities, using metaphors like "words are flowing out like endless rain into a paper cup" to convey the boundless nature of space. The line "Nothing's gonna change our world" speaks to the enduring power of love and hope, even amidst the vastness of the cosmos. "Across the Universe" leaves a lasting impression of profound wonder and a yearning to connect with something greater than ourselves.
17. Planet Caravan (Black Sabbath - 1970)
Stars shine like eyes ”
Song information
ArtistBlack Sabbath | Release1970 |
Time04:34 | View21M+ |
Likes 181K+ | SuitableMetalheads |
AlbumParanoid (Remaster)Listen on Spotify |
- Blues Rock
- Progressive Rock
- Heavy Metal
- Black Sabbath
"Planet Caravan" a haunting and ethereal track from Black Sabbath's 1970 album "Paranoid," transports listeners on a sonic voyage through the vastness of space. The song's lyrics, penned by Geezer Butler, paint a vivid picture of cosmic exploration, referencing celestial bodies like the moon and Mars, as well as the "endless skies" that envelop them. The song's unique musical style further enhances its space-themed essence. Black Sabbath's signature heavy metal sound takes a backseat, replaced by a psychedelic rock sound that evokes the feeling of floating through the universe. Tony Iommi's signature guitar riffs are paired with ethereal flute overdubs, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly atmosphere. Ozzy Osbourne's processed vocals, reminiscent of alien whispers, add to the feeling of the unknown.
The song's lyrical and musical elements combine to create a sense of awe and wonder, as listeners embark on a journey through the cosmos alongside the protagonist. The song's lyrics suggest a search for a higher meaning and purpose, possibly alluding to a search for life beyond Earth. The haunting melodies, combined with the song's lyrical themes, create a feeling of cosmic isolation, reminding us of humanity's place in the vast universe. "Planet Caravan" is a timeless track that transcends the boundaries of time and genre, leaving a lasting impression on listeners who crave a sense of space exploration and cosmic wonder.
18. Space Age Love Song (1982)
And you made me smile ”
Song information
ArtistA Flock Of Seagulls | Release1982 |
Time03:25 | View12M+ |
Likes 111K+ | SuitableN/a |
AlbumWe Are The '80sListen on Spotify |
"Space Age Love Song" by A Flock of Seagulls takes listeners on a journey through the vastness of space, but not in the traditional sense of exploration. Instead, the song focuses on the awe-inspiring power of love, comparing it to the expansiveness and mystery of the cosmos. The lyrics weave a tapestry of evocative imagery, like "you're my universe," and "a love that's out of this world." These lines not only suggest a deep romantic connection but also imply an otherworldly feeling of being lost in a cosmic embrace.
The song's musical style complements its themes perfectly. The ethereal synth soundscapes, punctuated by a catchy guitar melody, create an atmosphere of both wonder and yearning. The soaring vocals, coupled with the dynamic shifts in tempo and rhythm, further enhance the sense of emotional intensity, echoing the exhilarating rush of falling in love. "Space Age Love Song" is a powerful testament to the enduring power of human emotions, captured within a futuristic soundscape that transports listeners to a realm where love and the vastness of space intertwine.
19. Starman - The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (2012 Remaster)
Let the children use it ”
Song information
ArtistDavid Bowie | Release1972 |
Time03:33 | View12M+ |
Likes 149K+ | SuitableRock Enthusiasts |
AlbumThe Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (2012 Remaster)Listen on Spotify |
- Rock Ballad
- Art rock
- David Bowie
- Glam Rock
- Space Odyssey
"Starman" by David Bowie, a standout track from his 1972 album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars," is a cosmic anthem that captures the awe and wonder of space exploration. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a celestial messenger, "Starman" arriving on Earth with a message of hope, delivered through the power of radio waves. Lines like "He's a man from the voids, He's a cosmic boy," and "He's a messenger of void," transport the listener to a realm beyond our earthly understanding, where the universe itself speaks to us.
Bowie's unique vocal delivery, infused with a blend of theatrical drama and rock and roll energy, brings the lyrics to life. The music itself complements the space theme, utilizing soaring melodies and a driving rhythm that evokes a sense of interstellar flight. The instrumental arrangement, with its prominent use of electric guitar and synthesizers, creates a sense of cosmic grandeur that perfectly captures the boundless possibilities of space. "Starman" leaves the listener feeling both exhilarated and humbled by the vastness of the universe, reminding us of the potential for life beyond our own planet.