A NASA astronaut switched on one of Europe’s largest radio telescopes last night to allow it to “listen” to deep space and for signs of intelligent life.

A SYMBOLIC act guaranteeing vital attention for environmentally friendly policies, or a well-meaning but ultimately pointless move that does nothing to solve a genuine problem?

AN ASTRONAUT with strong family ties to Cork sent best wishes from space yesterday to mark the official opening of the country’s newest and most advanced observatory and space education centre.