Alas, we are progressively finding more and more "Super-Earth" (a term coined by Harvard University Astronomy Prof. Dimitar Sasselov to describe Earth-like planets- we have currently found 28) planets with our "super-advanced" telescopes.  Our ability to detect low mass planets in orbit around "super-shiny" stars gives us to the tools necessary to conduct further research on other "super-habitable" planets searching for "super-alternative" life forms.  We have found planets that have atmospheres to support life but require tectonic activity to release carbon-dioxide and oxygen molecules.  The moon and "super-earth", Gliese 581, are said to have liquid water on on them, the 61 Virginis planet is said to have a sun (and is 28 light years away- close enough to be studied by the average person)... research seems to be unlocking all sorts of information necessary to conclude that there are other life forms out there in this universe.  As of right now we have detected around 400 exoplanets (extrasolar meaning planets outside of our solar system) and their are trillions left to be discovered.  It seems as if another Enlightenment period is taking place, analytical philosophy and scientism are making come-backs.  The potential for an advanced understanding of how Earth came to be and what is entitled to the universe is lurking behind the scholarly minds of astronomers and astrophysicists... good luck to yee wonderful gentleman. 

Refer to these 3 articles for WAY more "super-information":
http://www.aao.gov.au/press/planets_dec09/

Also, if you are into space-travel, sign up for some space tours!

Virgin Galactic Space Tourism - created by Richard Branson for the general public, at 200,000 a tour, it is the cheaper of the two
Space Adventures - geared for more towards the absurdly wealthy few, at $30-40 million, you can take a scientific tour of space