One email shows it was the FBI's suggestion to close down the site, even though NMSU Police disagreed with the decision. Lack of information frustrated those closest to the operations.

Another email from McAteer read that the professor felt "the federal authorities have a moral obligation” to update employees on the investigation. Over nearly 2,000 pages of emails obtained by KOB, aliens are mentioned 47 times, but never in a serious context.

"We don't have aliens, although clearly that would be good for funding," one email reads. "The earth-destroying CME (coronal mass ejection) is not on the way, although clearly that would be good for funding."

A federal search warrant detailed the janitor using a laptop to distribute child porn. That janitor has not been charged with any crimes.

In an email sent to KOB Thursday, McAteer said he believes the janitor no longer works at the site.