CANBERRA, Australia, Aug. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Australians will have the opportunity to send text-like messages to potential intelligent life beyond Earth thanks to an initiative to be launched today to mark National Science Week.

Hot on the heels of last year's highly acclaimed BA Festival of Science, science and innovation will again be the focus of attention when the York Festival of Science and Technology returns in March.

Kate Magee Mission 21 has been called in to advise on next year's National Science and Engineering Week, as the Government attempts to drive take-up of the disciplines among British students.

TV SCIENCE celebrity Johnny Ball (right) is to present a talk in Nuneaton to celebrate National Science Week. He will be presenting a "lively and fun-packed" lunchtime session at Nuneaton Museum and Art Gallery, in Riversley Park, on March 17.

Who says thai cool kids and adults alike don't get a kick out of science and technology? An annual event driven in Ottawa demonstrates that science is more than geek speak.