I have little doubt that life is abundant in the universe. I do however suspect that intelligent tool using life forms (like us humans) are very rare. I suspect this because I look at earth's history. In all of the millions of years that life has been on earth, from bacteria to gigantic, yet now extinct species, it would appear that only once has an intelligent tool using species sprang up. This does not bode well for us finding technological civilizations. Sadly I also look to see how in our very short career here on earth we have already figured out many ways in which to wipe ourselves out. It would appear that technological know-how carries with it a self destruct potential that, or so for us, has remained only a threat. However with global warming and our 'Frankenstein' creations from Genetically modified foods that we have released into the wild without knowing for certain their full affects, to our ability to modify viruses to be super deadly nasties to the more mundane ability to send thousands of thermonuclear devices around the world to reduce Earth to a radioactive cinder, man learned men really doubt that we will survive our passions. It is possible that intelligent life does spring up more often than not, however it is even more possible that species commit suicide allowing their passions to over come their reason, thus their technological abilities are their end. As for names. Most likely all alien names for their home world translates to 'Earth'. ;-)

If there is no other life in this vast universe other then our selves, then truly it's a waste of space. I believe not only is extraterrestrial life possible but very probable.

I am POSITIVE that there is life on other planets .. and THEY have visited Earth .... Just do your research on Area 51 at Rosewell , New mexico and Project Blue Book ... the EVIDENCE is overwhealming ... +5

Possible and probable,with a billion,billion galaxy's in the known universe(what we can see)to think we are it,,that's just conceited.