The Aetherius Society
The Aetherius Society is a civilian new religious movement founded by George King in 1954 in London, UK, following claimed telepathic contacts with extraterrestrial 'Cosmic Masters' from Venus and other planets. It blends UFO beliefs with spirituality, viewing UFOs as vehicles of advanced aliens aiding humanity against disasters and 'black magicians.' Key activities include channeling messages, spiritual practices like yoga, and missions such as Operation Prayer Power, Operation Starlight, and Operation Sunbeam to harness energies for Earth's benefit. Notable achievements encompass global expansion with branches in the US (Hollywood since 1959), Canada, New Zealand, and Australia; publication of teachings like 'The Twelve Blessings'; and King's 1959 BBC broadcast in trance. The society promotes cooperation with these masters for a New Age, warning of self-destruction without change. It remains active today as a non-profit religious, scientific, and educational organization.