Heaven’s Gate

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Content note: Suicide

In March of 1997, the Hale-Bopp comet lit up the night sky — the brightest comet visible in decades. For most of us, it was a wonder of nature. But for one small group in California, it was a signal: a way to reach what their wide-eyed leader called the Next Level.

Thirty-nine people were convinced that to reach that next plane of existence, they would need to leave their human containers behind — and join the comet on its cosmic journey.

This is the story of the largest mass suicide in U.S. history, and how science fiction, especially Star Trek, shaped the language, symbolism, and beliefs that led them there.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available.

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988
International resources: findahelpline.com

Credits:
This episode of “The Prime Detective” was produced and hosted by Grayson Thagard.

Music for “The Prime Detective” is composed by Ben Wise: https://benwise.bandcamp.com/

Website and publishing support thanks to David Moody, Producer: “Let’s Talk About Treks” The Podcast.

Artwork for “The Prime Detective” is by Julie Hendrickson.

Buy me a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/theprimedetective