IT'S just about the biggest unanswered question known to man - is there life elsewhere in this or other solar systems?

The race to resolve the issue has taken over many lives and is the driving force behind the huge efforts put into developing craft to explore the universe.

It has also spawned thousands of books and films and an industry we know as science fiction.

Many people firmly believe there is life on other planets but what is lacking is proof that is accepted by the majority of those in the scientific community, never mind the rest of us.

History shows that breakthrough discoveries in such complex areas are often not made by governments and huge corporations but by ingenious individuals working alone.

That's recognised by big companies and is probably one of the reasons why they have stepped in to help Norman Crompton equip his observatory in a Sabden back garden.

The gear will help him scan outer space for laser pulses which could prove that intelligent life does exist elsewhere.

He is exploring an area vaster than we can comprehend and, as Norman admits, the odds on him spotting something are less likely than winning the lottery.

But, as they say, you have to be in it to win it.