Former NASA Astronaut Interprets UFOs as Demonic, Cites Biblical Verse

Charles Duke, a former NASA astronaut who was the lunar module pilot on the Apollo 16 mission in 1972, has asserted that UFOs are not extraterrestrial in origin but rather demonic beings. Duke shared his views with the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), pointing to a passage in the Bible, specifically 2 Corinthians 11:14, as evidence for his belief.

According to Duke, the Bible states that 'the devil can appear as an angel of light.' He interprets this verse as applicable to UFO phenomena, suggesting that these objects are manifestations of demonic forces attempting to mislead humanity and draw people away from their faith. Duke recounted a personal experience where he prayed for confirmation of his suspicions and subsequently had a friend, who had never discussed such topics, bring up UFOs the following morning. He views this as a divine sign reinforcing his conviction.

Duke's interpretation aligns with a broader theological perspective that has been discussed by public figures such as Vice President JD Vance and commentator Tucker Carlson. Vance has indicated his belief in supernatural phenomena, suggesting that beings could appear indistinguishable from advanced extraterrestrials to human observers, and that their actions might determine whether they are perceived as demonic or angelic. Carlson, in a 2024 appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, suggested UFOs are ancient "spiritual entities."

However, not all religious figures share this interpretation. Father Lee Taylor, who leads three churches in North Wales, told the Daily Mail that certain biblical passages might suggest UFOs represent non-human intelligence rather than demonic forces. He cited passages from Genesis, Ezekiel's vision of a 'wheel within a wheel,' and Jesus' statement about 'many rooms' in his Father's house as potentially relevant. Taylor advocates for the Church to prepare theologically for the possibility of extraterrestrial life, arguing that it would not diminish faith but rather expand the understanding of God's creation.

Taylor also cautioned against framing UFOs solely as demonic, stating that such a perspective can foster fear and hinder an open-minded approach to an unknown phenomenon. He suggested that if intelligent life exists beyond Earth, it may exhibit a diversity of characteristics, not necessarily fitting into strict categories of absolute good or evil, much like humanity itself.

Charles Duke, now 91, has held his views on the demonic nature of UFOs for some time. His participation in the Apollo 16 mission marked the fifth human landing on the Moon.