Cloning occupies a central role in the Raelians' beliefs. In a 1975 book, [Rael] says the extraterrestrials whom he met in the crater of a dormant French volcano gave him a new interpretation of the Bible and explained that humanity was created from the DNA of superior alien scientists, named the "Elohim." By creating new life from human DNA, he has since said, Earthling scientists can unlock the secret to immortality.

Rael, born in France in 1946 as Claude Vorilhon, wears white suits and his hair gathered in a bun. Brigitte Boisselier, the Raelian scientist who made yesterday's cloning announcement in Florida, cut a striking figure with bright orange hair, a midriff- baring top and black-striped hosiery.