If I'm not mistaken, they committed suicide because of the comet, Hale-Bop, which came close to the earth in April, 1997, so that even one with the naked eye could see it's tail. Marshal Applewhite, leader of the cult, Heaven's Gate, believed this comet was actually a UFO coming to take them away, and that the only they they can get aboard is to shed their earthly "armor"--in other words, they would all have to die. I don't recall it having anything to do with the world coming to an end.
carkees, you really need to research your sources better. You're starting to get like the infamous BK.
Hmm..yeah thought this was what the story was here when i saw the photo..its a fairly well known photo and obviously a well know case..dont mean to jump on ya as well pal but a bit more research on topics you start threads on would be appreciated