Were ancient civilizations influenced by alien visitors ? The controversial author of 'Chariots of the Gods' predicts that aliens will return within 20 years. Published in 1968, the book is one of several by Von Daniken exploring the idea that early human culture was significantly influenced by intelligent extraterrestrials visiting the Earth. While his work has been generally condemned as 'psuedoscience' by most academics, his books continue to maintain quite a following among those who subscribe to the 'ancient aliens' theory. Von Daniken himself appeared recently at an event in London dubbed 'Erich Von Daniken Legacy Night' in celebration of the upcoming 50th anniversary of his book 'Chariots of the Gods'. He was awarded the Stella Citizen Award by Giorgio A, Tsoukalos of 'Ancient Aliens' fame. During the event, Von Daniken gave a two hour presentation detailing his view that thousands of years ago there was a 'war in heaven' and that ET could return within the next two decades.