Nine Miles Down

The script is based on the widespread urban myth (started in the early '90s) surrounding the claim that Russian scientists in Siberia had drilled so deep that they had broken through into 'hell' and recorded the 'screams of the damned' emanating from the borehole. This claim turned out to be a hoax spread by a Scandinavian prankster who wanted to demonstrate human gullibility. However, by the time he owned up to the prank, the myth had fueled such a following, that his retraction was interpreted as an attempt to cover up 'the truth'.

Thomas often used the term "over and out" to end radio conversations. "Over" means "I have finished speaking and am awaiting a reply." "Out" means "I have finished the communication." "Over and Out" should never be used together in serious radio communication.