ANCIENT SKIES

Magazine Overview

Title: ANCIENT SKIES
Issue: Volume 13, Number 6
Date: January-February, 1987
Publisher: Ancient Astronaut Society
Country: USA
Theme: Exploration of ancient mysteries and the theory of ancient astronauts.

Baalbek: A Monument to Extraterrestrials?

The lead article by Dr. W. Raymond Drake, titled "Baalbek," explores the monumental ruins in Lebanon and posits a daring theory: that these structures may be the work of interstellar visitors. Citing the 1959 proposal by Russian physicist Dr. Matest Agrest, Drake questions who, and for what purpose, these cyclopean stones were hewn. The article describes the Baalbek terrace, its massive stone blocks (including the Trilithon, weighing up to 1000 tons), and the colossal columns of the Temple of Jupiter. Drake references the observations of Mark Twain, who marveled at the scale of the construction, suggesting a race of 'Gods or Giants' must have been responsible. Russian geologist Dr. Vladimir Avinsky also expressed wonder at the non-terrestrial scale of the stonework.

The article delves into the history and mythology surrounding Baalbek, mentioning its association with the god Baal, and legends attributing its construction to Cain or King Solomon. It also touches upon the possibility of its connection to ancient Egyptian rulers like Akhnaton. The sheer size and precision of the megalithic blocks, some measuring 70x14x13 feet and weighing over 1,200 tons, are highlighted as evidence that terrestrial technology of the time could not have achieved such feats.

Dr. Drake's research is supported by his book, "Titans in Antiquity," and a revised version titled "Cosmic Continents" by Dr. N. Mahalingam. The article notes the poor quality of the latter's manufacture and the difficulty in getting Dr. Drake's work published in the US or UK.

Other Ancient Mysteries and Civilizations

The People of the Inundated Land

Zelma Wright's article, "People of the Inundated Land," discusses a stepped pyramid in the Gulf of Mexico, known as "Key Mound," and the evidence of a submerged civilization in the region, stretching from Florida to Yucatan. She mentions the Atacapas Indians of Texas and Louisiana, who spoke a unique language and had legends of ancestors emerging from the sea and of gigantic beasts in swamp lands. Archaeological digs have unearthed mammoth remains, leading to speculation about whether the Atacapas might be descendants of people who came up from the sea.

Dr. Pasqual S. Schievella's "Hey! Is That You God?"

A brief mention is made of Dr. Pasqual S. Schievella's book, which is described as a readable, entertaining, and irreverent dialogue with 'god,' exploring the concept of a non-physical, personal creator. The book is noted for its appeal to skeptics and its potential to challenge beliefs.

The Starman of Yucatan

Gerardo Levet's article, "The Starman of Yucatan," focuses on a stone sculpture found in the Regional Museum of Merida, Mexico. The sculpture depicts a figure with unusual garments, headgear, and a representation of the planet Venus, leading Levet to suggest it represents an ancient astronaut. He notes the figure's protective suit, goggles, and an apparatus on its abdomen, possibly an energy device. Levet draws a parallel to a relief carving found at Tula, Mexico, depicting a figure using a 'plasma gun,' suggesting both figures might be depictions of the same individual or represent a common ancient astronaut presence.

Reader Contributions and Society News

A Letter from John Carlo

A letter from John Carlo expresses a strong belief in the ancient astronaut theory and criticizes governments and scientists for allegedly ignoring or suppressing this truth, suggesting a "scientific mafia" is at work. Carlo advocates for the study of ancient science and metaphysical techniques to improve human lives and solve global problems.

Expedition to Yugoslavia, Turkey, and Greece

An announcement details the Ancient Astronaut Society's planned member expedition for September 1987, which will include visits to Dubrovnik, Split, Novi Vinodolski, Istanbul, Malatya, Nemrud Dagh, Ankara, Athens, and the Peloponnese. The expedition aims to explore historical sites and attend the Society's World Conference.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Ancient Skies strongly champions the ancient astronaut theory, presenting it as a plausible explanation for many unexplained ancient structures and artifacts. The magazine highlights the work of researchers like W. Raymond Drake, Matest Agrest, and Zecharia Sitchin, who interpret ancient myths, legends, and megalithic constructions as evidence of extraterrestrial contact in Earth's past. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry into these mysteries, encouraging readers to question conventional historical narratives and consider alternative explanations involving advanced ancient technology and non-terrestrial visitors. The articles consistently emphasize the inadequacy of conventional explanations for the scale and precision of ancient engineering feats.