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Posted: Wed., Oct. 3, 2007, 7:00pm PT

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History Channel has awarded second-season primetime renewals to "The Universe" and "Cities of the Underworld," each of which will produce 13 episodes.

Nancy Dubuc, executive VP and general manager of the History Channel, said each of the two series will, for the first time, spin off websites linked to history.com.

For "Universe," the site is called "Backyard Astronomer," which will feature shortform series with practical tips on how to safely view a solar eclipse and how to navigate using the stars as guide.

"The Naked Underground" is the website for "Cities of the Underworld," which will deliver four-minute films exploring urban myths.

"Universe" comes from Flight 33 Prods.; Beth Dietrich Segarra is executive producer for History Channel. Authentic Entertainment produces "Underworld," with Dolores Gavin as exec producer for History.