The chief astronomer of the Roman Catholic Church says other forms of life may exist outside earth, and that intelligent beings could exist in outer space.
Jesuit priests run the Pope’s astronomical observatory which was founded over a century ago.
The current director, Father Gabriel Funes from Argentina, is a much respected scientist who collaborates with universities around the world.
The search for forms of extra-terrestrial life, he says, does not contradict belief in God.
"Just as there are a plethora of creatures on Earth, there could be others, equally intelligent, created by God," he said.
He also speculates some aliens may be free from original sin.
"If other intelligent beings exist, it's not certain that they need redemption."