Ancient Skies - Vol 14 No 6 - 1987-88

Magazine Overview

Title: ANCIENT SKIES
Issue: Volume 14, Number 6
Date: January-February, 1988
Publisher: Ancient Astronaut Society
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of ANCIENT SKIES, the Official Logbook of the Ancient Astronaut Society, features an article titled "THE NAZCA LINES AND THE NEW EXPLORERS" by Gene M. Phillips. The article critically examines television programs, specifically the NOVA series and the "New Explorers" series hosted by Bill Kurtis, which are accused of discrediting the ancient astronaut theory concerning the Nazca Lines in Peru.

Critique of "New Explorers" and "NOVA" Programs

The article begins by discussing a "New Explorers" television special that focused on the Nazca markings, presenting the theories of Maria Reiche, a German mathematician who dedicated over 40 years to studying the lines. The program also featured Phyllis Pitluga, an astronomer from the Adler Planetarium, who visited Nazca and expressed fascination with Reiche's theories. The author, Gene M. Phillips, criticizes these programs for factual errors, such as mislocating the Nazca Plain inland from the coast. He notes that while the programs present Reiche and Pitluga as advancing a "new explorer" perspective, they also attempt to ridicule the ancient astronaut theory without naming its principal proponent, Erich von Daniken.

Phillips specifically addresses the "New Explorers" attempt to disprove the idea that some Nazca markings resemble landing strips. He argues that the program used "selective evidence" by focusing on one uneven marking while ignoring dozens of perfectly level ones. He also points out that the program dismisses the ancient astronaut theory, stating it "offends the serious researchers."

Rejection of Astronomical Explanations

The article delves into the theories of Maria Reiche and Phyllis Pitluga, which suggest the Nazca lines were created to align with astronomical events like solstices, the sun, moon, and significant stars. Phillips asserts that this "agricultural calendar" theory, as well as the idea of alignment to stars, has been disproven. He cites a 1968 study financed by the National Geographic Society, which found no more alignment to celestial bodies than could be expected by chance. Furthermore, he references the work of astronomer Dr. Gerald S. Hawkins, who, through computer analysis of the Nazca lines in his book "Beyond Stonehenge," concluded that the "Kosok-Reiche" theory of deliberate alignment was "a speculation" and that the lines did not point to stars or celestial bodies beyond what chance would dictate.

Phillips expresses concern that the "New Explorers" program appeals to educators to use its content to teach students, potentially prejudicing them against the ancient astronaut theory. He criticizes the program for perpetuating disproven theories, calling it a "fraud on the public."

Ancient Astronaut Society's Perspective

The article recounts a visit by members of the Ancient Astronaut Society to Nazca in 1977, where they met Maria Reiche. At that time, Reiche confessed she did not know why the lines were made. The author notes Reiche's subsequent animosity towards Erich von Daniken, stemming partly from his books attracting tourists who she felt were damaging the markings, and partly from a miscaptioned photograph in "Chariots of the Gods?" that she found offensive.

Phillips highlights that despite Reiche's complaints, the town of Nazca honored von Daniken for awakening public interest. He contrasts Reiche's stance with the Ancient Astronaut Society's continued belief in the ancient astronaut theory, which he states has not been proven wrong, unlike the astronomical theories of Reiche and Pitluga.

Evidence from Space and Expert Opinions

The article mentions that in 1987, Soviet Cosmonaut Dr. Georgy M. Grechko, a physicist and mathematician, confirmed seeing the Nazca lines from space, specifically the lines themselves, not the smaller figures. Grechko, who has extensive experience in space, stated that no one knows who made the markings or for what purpose, and that their configurations are only distinguishable from above and can be seen from outer space.

Phillips concludes that while the Reiche-Pitluga astronomical theory has been disproven, the ancient astronaut theory, though ridiculed, remains valid and requires further consideration and exploration. He calls for "new explorers, but ones with new ideas."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the critical examination of media portrayals of the Nazca Lines and the ancient astronaut theory. The editorial stance is strongly in favor of the ancient astronaut theory, asserting its continued validity in the face of what the author perceives as biased and scientifically unsound critiques presented by mainstream television programs. The article champions the scientific method and criticizes the perpetuation of debunked theories, particularly those that aim to discredit Erich von Daniken and his work. The publication, ANCIENT SKIES, positions itself as a platform for exploring alternative theories, especially those related to ancient astronauts, and for challenging what it views as misinformation presented by popular science media.