Fossils behind the aliens: Revealing the 300 million-year-old body that inspired the creation of aliens in classic sci-fi movies

| Archeaology
October 15, 2024

Most of us don’t believe in aliens, but looking at this strange fossil might make you stop and think.

This relic is in fact the eye-catching fossil that inspired the alien antagonists in Ridley Scott’s classic sci-fi horror, Alie.

Aliep’s creator was Swiss surrealist artist Haps Rυdolf Giger, whom Ridley Scott hired to design the creatures after seeing Giger’s artwork Necroom IV, one of his major designs said to have been based on fossils.

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Alien Abduction: This 300-million-year-old fossil, which inspired the artist who designed the alien antagonist in the Alien films, was stolen and then returned to a Swiss museum.

Mr. Giger’s designs, one of which memorably leaked from a character’s chest on screen, opted to black out his team from the Academy Award for Best Achievement in Visual Effects for the 1979 film and the franchise that followed.

But the strange thing is that a fictional fossil is actually the remains of an early life form that existed on our own planet approximately 300 million years ago.

And the extremely rare fossil captured the public’s imagination to such an extent that when it went on display in Switzerland, it not only attracted many visitors, it also tempted a thief.

Police believe that the thief, who broke into the case and stole the prize-winning piece from the Aathal dinosaur museum, is a fossil collector.

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The iconic scene from Ridley Scott’s film where the alien’s mouth wraps around John Hurt’s face.

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The relic was the inspiration for Ridley Scott’s hit film, Alien.

Last week, police released the photo in an attempt to find the exhibit and track down who took it.

And now the priceless piece has been returned after being posted to the museum’s mailbox inside a padded envelope.

Museum curator Dr Thomas Bolliger said: “It was comparatively damaged, although one of the arms had been broken off.”

“It is truly an extraordinary fossil and shows two distinct species of a spikeless animal that lived on the sea floor some 300 million years ago.”

A museum spokesman added: “It is a very valuable fossil, but also very conspicuous, and it will be very difficult for anyone to sell it or even keep it secret, given the publicity of the theft.”

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Inspired: HR Giger’s Necroom IV is based on the spectacular Swiss fossils and is the work of art that earned Mr. Giger his Academy Award-winning job as head of the Aliep design team.

Review: Top 10 Healthcare Services in the USA

The U.S. healthcare industry is a complex ecosystem of providers, insurers, and technology-driven services, delivering critical care to millions. In 2025, the sector is shaped by rising costs (projected at $4.9 trillion in 2023), technological innovation, and a focus on patient-centric care. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 healthcare services in the USA, based on market presence, patient outcomes, and industry impact.

1. HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is the largest health system, operating 220 hospitals and over 40,000 staffed beds across 20 states. Known for comprehensive services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty treatments, it generates significant net patient revenue. Its scale and advanced technology adoption ensure high-quality care, though accessibility varies by region.

2. Universal Health Services (UHS)

UHS manages 183 hospitals across 40 states, with over 21,000 beds, focusing on acute care and behavioral health. Its facilities in Texas, Florida, and California provide diverse services, from trauma care to psychiatric treatment. UHS’s emphasis on mental health integration aligns with 2025 trends, though high costs can be a barrier.

3. Encompass Health Corporation

With 164 hospitals, Encompass is the largest operator of rehabilitation hospitals, offering specialized post-acute care for stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury patients. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, it operates in 37 states, delivering measurable outcomes through therapy-focused programs. Its niche focus limits broader service scope.

4. CommonSpirit Health

A Catholic-affiliated system with 142 hospitals, CommonSpirit provides acute care, outpatient services, and telehealth across 21 states. It excels in community health programs and equitable access, serving underserved populations. Its integration of AI for diagnostics enhances efficiency, but merger-related challenges can affect consistency.

5. Ascension Health

Ascension operates 139 hospitals, focusing on primary care, oncology, and cardiology. With a mission-driven approach, it serves low-income communities through charity care programs. Its adoption of value-based care (VBC) models, projected to cover 90 million lives by 2027, improves outcomes but faces staffing shortages.

6. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is a leading integrated healthcare provider, combining insurance and care delivery for 12.5 million members. Its ACA marketplace plans are top-rated for affordability and quality, with low deductibles and strong preventive care. Operating in eight states, its HMO model ensures coordinated care but limits patient choice.

7. Aetna (CVS Health)

Aetna, under CVS Health, provides health insurance and healthcare services, covering 39 million lives. Its ACA plans offer competitive premiums and broad networks, with telehealth and pharmacy integration via CVS. Aetna’s focus on chronic disease management and AI-driven care navigation boosts outcomes, though rural access is limited.

8. Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minnesota, is renowned for specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. With 70,000 staff and three major campuses, it serves 1.3 million patients annually. Its research-driven approach and high patient satisfaction earn it top rankings, but costs and geographic reach are drawbacks.

9. Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic, with 23 hospitals, is a leader in cardiac care and medical innovation, serving patients across Ohio, Florida, and Nevada. Its adoption of cloud computing and AI for diagnostics enhances precision medicine. High costs and limited national presence restrict accessibility for some.

10. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

BCBS, a federation of 34 independent companies, insures 115 million Americans, offering PPO, HMO, and EPO plans. Its ACA marketplace plans are widely available, with strong provider networks and wellness programs. BCBS’s focus on digital health tools and equitable access is notable, though premiums vary by state.

Choosing the Right Service

Selecting a healthcare service depends on location, medical needs, and budget. HCA and UHS offer broad hospital-based care, while Kaiser and Aetna excel in integrated insurance and delivery. Mayo and Cleveland Clinic are ideal for specialized treatments, and BCBS provides flexible insurance options. Compare costs (e.g., average ACA premium: $635/month), provider networks, and patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or U.S. News. With 26 million uninsured Americans and rising costs, prioritize services with telehealth, preventive care, and VBC to maximize value.

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