Ancient Skies

Magazine Overview

Title: Ancient Skies
Issue: Volume 2, Number 2
Date: May-June, 1975
Publisher: Ancient Astronaut Society
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of "Ancient Skies" delves into the intersection of science fiction and the ancient astronaut theory, exploring how imaginative concepts from SF writers can inform our understanding of humanity's past and potential future. The magazine features articles by prominent figures in the field, discusses notable books, and reports on UFO phenomena.

Phantasie: Der Vorbote von der Wissenschaft (Fantasy: The Harbinger of Science)

Written by Walter Erning (Clark Darlton), this article addresses the question of why a science-fiction author would be a member of the Ancient Astronaut Society, which primarily comprises authors and scientists focused on humanity's past. Erning argues that the past and future are closely linked, and that SF writers, by envisioning future possibilities, contribute to the understanding of our origins. He highlights the influence of authors like Jules Verne and, more specifically, the German writer P.A. Müller (Freder van Holk). Müller's novels, such as "Die Blaue Kugel" (The Blue Sphere), published in the 1930s, explored themes of alien astronauts landing on Earth thousands of years ago, influencing the development of ancient civilizations like the Incas and Mayas. Erning shares his personal journey, inspired by Müller's work, leading him to write fifty novels on UFOs, time dilation, and Earth's past. He also mentions Jacques Bergier and Erich von Däniken, whose works popularized the ancient astronaut theory, marking 1968 as a turning point. Erning posits that fantasy is the "rocket fuel of science," essential for technological advancement and for challenging conventional thinking. He expresses respect for scientists like Josef F. Blumrich and Peter Krassa who have courageously explored these unconventional ideas.

Fantasy: The Precursor of Science

This is the English version of Walter Erning's (Clark Darlton) article, reiterating the points made in the German version. It emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between science fiction and the exploration of ancient mysteries. Erning credits science fiction writers with advancing concepts that have become reality, thereby contributing to humanity's development. He specifically mentions P.A. Müller and his novels, particularly "Die Blaue Kugel," which described alien astronauts and their influence on ancient cultures. Erning's own career was significantly shaped by Müller's work, leading him to write extensively on UFOs and ancient astronauts. He notes the impact of Erich von Däniken's "Chariots of the Gods?" in popularizing the theory. Erning concludes that fantasy is crucial for scientific progress and for solving the riddles of our past, and he hopes for a future where the word "possible" can be replaced by "can."

An Extraterrestrial Communication?

Authored by Lawrence Blazey of Cleveland, Ohio, this piece recounts an unusual experience at an Ancient Astronaut Society meeting in April 1974. During a playback of a taped lecture, Blazey and the audience heard unexplained background talking. Later, an orange cross-shaped light formation was observed in the sky for over forty minutes. Blazey notes that replaying the tape revealed no background sound, leading him and others to conclude that extraterrestrials were monitoring the meeting and provided a sign of their existence.

Peru-Bolivia Expedition

This section serves as a final call for members interested in joining the Ancient Astronaut Society's first field expedition to South America. Interested individuals are directed to contact Joan Roettger at Ravinia Travel Service.

Opening Address of Second World Conference

Delivered by Gene M. Phillips, Founder of the Ancient Astronaut Society, at the Second World Conference on Ancient Astronauts in Zurich on May 29, 1975. Phillips welcomes attendees and outlines the Society's mission: to explore the concept of Earth being visited by intelligent beings from outer space and the development of advanced civilizations in the past. He stresses the importance of scientific rigor and collaboration to advance the "ancient astronaut theory." Phillips acknowledges the opposition from the scientific community and the media but asserts that history is filled with discoveries made by open-minded individuals outside rigid disciplines. He argues that science is too important to be left solely to scientists. Phillips reflects on humanity's innate yearning for the stars, questioning if there's an instinct pulling us back to space, our origin. He believes understanding our past is key to anticipating our future and calls for increased governmental and institutional resources for exploration, both into Earth's hidden realms and outer space.

Book Listings

The issue includes extensive lists of hardcover and paperback books related to ancient astronauts, UFOs, and related topics. Notable authors featured include Erich von Däniken, Jacques Bergier, Louis Pauwels, Charles Fort, and many others, covering subjects like pyramids, Atlantis, and extraterrestrial visitation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the profound connection between science fiction and the exploration of ancient mysteries, the potential for extraterrestrial influence on human history, and the importance of challenging established scientific paradigms. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, advocating for the serious scientific investigation of the ancient astronaut theory and encouraging a blend of scientific rigor with imaginative thinking, as exemplified by the contributions of science fiction writers.