ANCIENT SKIES

Magazine Overview

Title: ANCIENT SKIES
Issue: Volume 20, Number 4
Date: September-October, 1993
Publisher: Ancient Astronaut Society
Country: USA
Theme: Exploration of ancient astronaut theories and their influence on human civilization.

Cosmic Humanity: A Brief Summary Regarding Extra-terrestrial Indications Surrounding the Human Phenomenon by Uli Knatterbusch

Uli Knatterbusch, writing under a pseudonym, argues that space exploration is not a choice but a necessity for humanity's survival, especially if space represents a part of humanity's origin. He posits that human evolution and current existence are deeply intertwined with extra-terrestrial factors. Knatterbusch criticizes the current scientific and governmental approach to space exploration, which he believes is driven by economic and technical justifications rather than a philosophical understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos.

He contends that human evolution should be viewed within a universal context, with Earth being a small part of a vast galactic structure. Events on Earth are simultaneously cosmic events, and unknown cosmic forces can impact life on Earth. Humanity's survival, he argues, depends on understanding these extra-terrestrial particulars.

Furthermore, space exploration unites humanity politically and socially, fostering a sense of species identity, as exemplified by the 'Overview Effect.' This shared experience transcends earthly divisions like race and religion. The human perspective expands through extra-terrestrial endeavors, revealing that true wisdom and sophistication are measured on an extra-terrestrial scale.

Knatterbusch asserts that the universe is largely extra-terrestrial and invisible, making Earth inconsequential in the grand scheme. He links biological and historical development, including aspirations and achievements, to extra-terrestrial events. He discusses how agriculture, architecture, and even religious beliefs are influenced by cosmic realities and potentially by ancient alien wisdom.

He highlights that human architecture often emulates cosmic realities and that religious texts draw inspiration from extra-terrestrial sources, with humans acting as recorders of divine revelations. The Old Testament, in particular, is seen as a record of human interaction with celestial entities. Humanity's quest for immortality and other ideals is also framed as extra-terrestrial in nature, as earthly life is subject to material cycles.

Knatterbusch concludes that humanity has a responsibility to explore all avenues of salvation and survival, recognizing its true origins and place in the universe. Space exploration is thus a duty, stemming from an obligation to exercise due diligence.

Members Respond to Max Flindt's Article "Is Mathematical Ability Extraterrestrial?"

Several members of the Ancient Astronaut Society respond to a previous article by Max Flindt, which hypothesized that mathematical ability might be extraterrestrial in origin.

Pat Delgado questions the assumption that alien spacecraft would face the same atmospheric re-entry problems as human ones, suggesting aliens possess advanced protective technology. He agrees that extraterrestrials operate on a different level of existence and that human mathematical ability is likely derived from a basic, high-level capacity for thought, which can be applied to any subject.

Dr. Franklin R. Ruehl agrees that the universe is teeming with life and that ancient astronauts likely explored Earth. However, he is dubious of the hypothesis that human mathematical ability is due to extraterrestrial rewiring of the brain. He suggests it is a subset of the brain's capacity for abstract reasoning, developed as humans expanded their intelligence for survival and expansion.

Lawrence Blazey emphasizes the dualistic nature of body and mind, suggesting that humans have spiritual bodies that receive thoughts from a universal mind. He references the Nefilim and the Great Pyramid of Giza as evidence of advanced civilizations with mathematical knowledge on Earth millennia ago, asserting that extraterrestrials did not need mathematics for space travel but possessed higher mental powers and could tap into the eternal mind.

Rustum D. Patel agrees that mathematical ability is likely extraterrestrial. He mentions the long history of searching for extraterrestrial intelligence and the evidence of UFOs. He also notes that the discovery of planets outside our solar system is not new.

Say What?

Gene M. Phillips questions an article in Time Magazine about the Maya civilization, specifically a description of their ballgame that involved ritual, gambling, and human sacrifice, where players were sometimes decapitated and their heads used as balls, or they were bounced down pyramid steps after being trussed into human spheres. Phillips wonders if this is the result of an archaeologist gone mad or a journalist trying to emulate one.

Other Mentions

• The issue notes that Brad and Sherry Steiger have published several books on animal-related paranormal topics.
• An expedition to Peru and Bolivia is announced for May 5-19, 1994.
• The Ancient Astronaut Society was founded in 1973 and is a tax-exempt, not-for-profit corporation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the pervasive influence of extraterrestrial factors on human civilization, history, and consciousness. The magazine consistently promotes the idea that ancient astronauts played a significant role in shaping human development, from religious beliefs and architectural marvels to fundamental cognitive abilities like mathematics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these theories, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional scientific explanations and to view humanity's place in the cosmos as intrinsically linked to potential alien contact and influence. There is a strong emphasis on the necessity of space exploration for humanity's long-term survival and evolution.