Although "Stargate SG-1" bids adieu to the Sci Fi Channel after its 10th and final season, its spin-off "Stargate Atlantis" will get new life.

The popular sci fi show has been renewed for a 20-episode fifth season, it was announced Wednesday, Oct. 24.

"SCI FI is proud to bring 'Atlantis' back for another season," says Mark Stern, Executive Vice President, Original Programming for the network. "'Atlantis' truly came out from under the shadow of its sister series this year and proved that it's a hit in its own right. With this season's exciting new characters and vibrant storylines, 'Atlantis' also shows every sign of matching its sibling's longevity."

In the "Stargate" universe, a network of ancient alien devices called Stargates allows instantaneous interstellar travel between galaxies. "Stargate Atlantis" follows the adventures of the human military and civilian expedition to the lost city of Atlantis in the Pegasus Galaxy, discovering new enemies on the way to uncovering the secrets of the Ancients.

The fourth season, currently airing on Fridays, introduced two new cast members: "Stargate SG-1's" Amanda Tapping and "Firefly's" Jewel Staite. It also marked the temporary return of Paul McGillion, whose character Dr. Carson Beckett perished on the show.

The new season will begin production in early 2008.