Turpentine, There are problems with the way you used the colors. If you'll contact me [and send me the psd source files] I'll do my best to give you a solution.
I feel #1 looks the cleanest, but I do feel it's a little big/bland... A few changes need to be taken no matter what banner you choose IMO.. Try adding in something lik a satelite or you know, some kind of communication thing... That may look nifty.