Second Landing

"Second Landing" by F. L. Wallace is a science fiction story focused on Ethaniel and Bal, two extraterrestrial travelers who arrive at Earth’s doorstep only to be greeted by a world teetering on the brink of nuclear annihilation. As they hover above our planet in their spacecraft, the aliens battle internally about whether or not they should extend a helping hand to humanity, wondering if preventing our demise is worth interfering with our destructive course and facing Earth's harsh conditions. After gathering intel on our species' technology and observing our behavior, they opt to land separately, engineering a spectacle of light with their ship to gain the attention of humans, who promptly interpret them to be angels. Despite the initial doubt and the risks of the planet, they attempt to influence world peace and think that their efforts can prevent the impending disaster. The tale urges reflection on themes like empathy, intervention, and the surprising similarities shared between humans and extraterrestrial cultures who face their own unique struggles.