NASA scientists using the Kepler space telescope also announced the discovery of six planets orbiting a star called Kepler-11.

VOA: special.2011.02.09

So when spacecraft are sent to other planets, scientists will look for layers of gypsum in hopes of finding similar fossils.

VOA: special.2010.05.25

Experts credit the Greek astronomer Archimedes with developing the earliest known device to show the daily movement of the planets.

VOA: special.2010.09.29

A planetarium is a theater with a rounded ceiling onto which images of the stars and planets are projected.

VOA: special.2010.09.29

These mechanical devices that show the relative placement and movement of the planets and moons are sometimes called orreries.

VOA: special.2010.09.29

We will also tell about a historic record of rainy seasons in Asia, and the search for life on other planets.

VOA: special.2010.05.25

The Kepler space telescope looks for planets by measuring tiny decreases in the brightness of stars when planets cross in front of them.

VOA: special.2011.02.09

Some scientists have called Jupiter the protector of the inner planets and our own Earth -- from objects from the outer solar system.

VOA: special.2009.08.25

Or Venus? Or on any of the other planets either inside or outside our solar system?

VOA: special.2010.05.25

But the Kepler mission's chief scientist, William Borucki,says eighty percent of the possible planets will probably be confirmed in the coming months and years.

VOA: special.2011.02.09

Scientists say extensive observations from earth-based telescopes are needed to confirm the existence of the planets.

VOA: special.2011.02.09

Still another is the crash of large asteroids, minor planets that fall to earth.

VOA: special.2009.03.17

"Kepler 11 is a surprising flat and compact system of six transiting planets.

VOA: special.2011.02.09