Most of the mainstream media don't pay much attention to the efforts being made regarding our search for the possibility of life elsewhere in the universe - including our own solar systems. Now and then, you are made aware of temporary highlights (the Kepler space telescope launch just yesterday, for example), but in general, ongoing coverage is not available.
You can find this kind of information on the websites maintained by the space agencies involved in these endeavours.
Here are some links for proposed space missions related to this topic:
Europa Jupiter System Mission
http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/video/index.cfm?id=808
Titan Saturn System Mission
http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/video/index.cfm?id=810
This is the International Year of Astronomy. Astronomy is closely involved with the search for life elsewhere. Amateur and professional astronomers are making many varied efforts to promote the awareness of this ancient science. Here, for the area where I'm at home, are a couple of links indicating the locations where observation of the sky, seminars on various astronomical topics, and other related efforts are taking place :
The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Vancouver Centre
http://www.vancouverastronomy.com/
Local meetings
http://astronomy.meetup.com/131/
There are similar events scheduled all over the world. Check you local astronomy club or association for more details.
