Ancient Skies - Vol 12 No 4 - 1985-86

Magazine Overview

Title: Ancient Skies
Issue: Volume 12, Number 4
Date: September-October, 1985
Publisher: Ancient Astronaut Society
Country: USA
Focus: This issue of Ancient Skies explores theories connecting ancient civilizations, mythology, and potential extraterrestrial influences, with a focus on astronomical phenomena and enigmatic archaeological sites.

Atmospheric Changes on Venus?

Dr. Stuart W. Greenwood presents a hypothesis that the atmosphere of Venus has undergone significant changes, evolving from an Earth-like state to its current inhospitable condition. He bases this theory on the discrepancy between modern measurements of Venus's albedo (reflective power) and the longer periods of invisibility recorded in Mayan astronomical texts, such as the Dresden and Borgia Codices. Greenwood suggests that an earlier, more reflective atmosphere on Venus would have resulted in longer periods of invisibility against the Sun's glare. He posits that the Mayan records may reflect this earlier state, supporting the ancient astronaut hypothesis.

The article includes a table comparing the observed synodic period of Venus today with the intervals recorded in Mayan codices. The Mayan records show longer periods of invisibility at Superior Conjunction (when Venus is behind the Sun) and slightly longer periods of visibility as both Morning and Evening Stars. Greenwood offers this as an alternative explanation to ritualistic reasons suggested by other researchers for the Mayan discrepancies.

Are Some Scientists Extraterrestrials?

George T. Sassoon, an electronics engineer and linguist, explores the possibility of extraterrestrial (ET) intelligence and its potential interaction with humanity. He discusses the general scientific consensus that other technical civilizations likely exist but are too distant for direct contact. Sassoon then posits a more speculative idea: that humanity might be extraterrestrials themselves, perhaps a lost colony or survivors of a cosmic event. He considers how such a civilization might interact with a less advanced one, suggesting a cautious, hands-off approach to avoid cultural collapse, possibly through subtle guidance or even the placement of secret agents.

Sassoon also recounts a visit to Glozel, France, where controversial archaeological finds, including clay tablets with an unknown script, were discovered in the 1920s. Despite initial dismissal as forgeries, Sassoon finds the farmer who made the discoveries to be credible and notes that recent dating methods have confirmed the antiquity of the objects. He criticizes the scientific community for its lack of interest, attributing it to the farmer's non-compliance with established scientific protocols.

Beyond the Sirius Lore

Dr. Vladimir V. Rubtsov delves into the Dogon mythology concerning the Sirius star system. According to the Dogon, Sirius is a triple star system, and they possess astronomical knowledge that is believed to have been imparted by cosmic visitors. Rubtsov discusses the immense energy requirements for interstellar travel and introduces N.S. Kardashev's classification of extraterrestrial civilizations based on their energy harnessing capabilities (Type 1, 2, and 3).

Rubtsov explores the possibility of astroengineering activities by advanced civilizations. He references a hypothesis by Dr. V.V. Ivanov suggesting a link between the rise of Homo sapiens and a supernova explosion approximately 50,000 years ago. Rubtsov focuses on the Sirius system, noting that Sirius B, a white dwarf, likely evolved from a red giant. He considers the possibility of mass exchange between stars in multiple systems and the potential for Sirius B to have exploded as a supernova, which could have been catastrophic for Earth's biosphere.

Rubtsov proposes that a cosmic supercivilization might have intervened in the Sirius system's evolution, possibly by removing excess stellar matter from Sirius B to prevent a supernova. He links this to ancient myths, such as the 'sky dog' chained by blacksmiths, suggesting these myths could be distorted accounts of this astroengineering event. He concludes that the Sirius system might be a 'battlefield' for cosmic future rather than a mere abode of ETIs.

Another Lost City Found in Peru

Donald Eugene Savoy, an American explorer, announced the discovery of 'Gran Vilaya,' an extensive ancient pre-Columbian city in the northeastern Peruvian jungle. Covering 120 square miles and comprising over 80 interconnected layouts with approximately 23,950 structures, Savoy attributes the city to the Chachapoyas empire, which existed from 800 AD to 1480 AD. The expedition was supported by various organizations, including the Andean Explorers Club of Reno, Nevada, and the government of Peru.

More on the Riddle of the Stones

Gregory Morris revisits the hypothesis presented in a previous issue regarding the stonework at Sacsayhuaman, Peru, suggesting the stones were either pre-softened or manufactured from a concrete-like mixture. Morris draws a parallel between this ancient stoneworking technology and future possibilities in space construction, citing research on using prestressed concrete for space colonies and lunar habitats. He proposes that ancient astronauts, potentially living in 'O'Neill-type' space habitats, might have used space-derived fabrication techniques on Earth, resulting in the enigmatic stone structures that defy conventional explanation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Ancient Skies revolve around the ancient astronaut hypothesis, suggesting that extraterrestrial intelligences have influenced human history and culture. The magazine explores astronomical anomalies (Venus, Sirius), ancient mythologies (Dogon, Maya), and unexplained archaeological sites (Glozel, Peruvian ruins, Sacsayhuaman stonework) as potential evidence for past extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these possibilities, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations beyond conventional scientific paradigms, particularly when ancient records or artifacts seem to contradict modern understanding. The publication positions itself as a platform for exploring these