Skywatch

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Skywatch", the quarterly publication of "Contact (S.A.)", dated December 1967 and January/February 1968, announces a significant organizational change and presents several articles related to UFO phenomena and astronomy.

Editorial: Name Change and Reorganization

The editorial explains that the organization, formerly known as "International Sky Scouts (S.A.)", is changing its name to "Contact (S.A.)". This decision stems from the resignation of the International Chairman of the I.S.S. (International Sky Scouts). The magazine itself will retain the name "Skywatch". The editorial expresses a desire to align with Hon. Brinsley Le Poer Trench, who is now heading the "Contact" group, noting that many I.S.S. members have joined this new entity. The reasons for the I.S.S. International Chairman's resignation are detailed: the group's headquarters in Japan overruled the International Chairman on policy matters, demanded an oath of allegiance to Japan, and ordered the banning of certain books, including those by George Adamski. Mr. Le Poer Trench refused to enforce this order and resigned. The editorial also mentions that at a recent meeting in Durban, members unanimously voted to transition to "Contact", and the group will now be known as "Sky Watchers". Despite the change, the publication emphasizes that each group works towards the same goal, even if through different means, and wishes the remaining I.S.S. groups worldwide success.

The Fred White Incident

Authored by Philip J. Human, this article recounts two separate alleged UFO sightings by Fred White. The first occurred in March 1961, when Fred White and his friend Henry O'Dank were fishing at Paterson's groyne, North Beach, Durban. At 3 a.m., a light appeared in the eastern sky, which then changed course and headed towards them. As it approached, it stopped abruptly about 25 yards away and 100 feet above the sea. They observed a circular craft, at least 100 feet in diameter, emitting a greenish glow, with a dome on top and portholes. It hovered silently for about five minutes, then moved north along the beach and disappeared. They heard a soft whine while it was in motion, but it was silent when hovering.

The second incident took place during the Easter weekend the following year. Fred White and his friend Michael were fishing at Richards Bay. In the evening, Michael experienced radio static interference. Later, Fred went for a walk on the beach and heard a high-pitched whine. He saw a bright light, the size of the moon, travelling east to south at about 200 feet altitude. The light changed direction and approached him on the beach, descending to about 100 feet above the shore. Fred became alarmed and tried to climb an embankment. He described seeing a huge, circular, metallic craft, at least 100 feet in diameter and about 75 feet high. As it settled, the whine stopped. It glowed green, and Fred saw large portholes. He observed a man inside, wearing a metallic crash helmet and a blue tunic, with a fair complexion and a foreign accent. The man appeared muscular and wore gloves made of shiny mesh. The craft lifted off after six minutes, emitting a downdraught, and disappeared at high speed. The next morning, Fred found no trace of the craft, but Michael mentioned the radio interference from the previous night.

Fred White's Hospitalization and Visitor

The author, Gregory Roberts, recounts meeting Fred White in June 1963 and learning about his interest in flying saucers. Roberts details an incident on September 8, 1966, when Fred White became ill at work and was hospitalized with a completely collapsed left lung and a large hole. While in the hospital, a visitor entered the ward, identified Fred, and spoke with him. This visitor, described as medium height and build with fair hair and a glowing complexion, wore an unusual wrist watch and spoke with a foreign accent. The visitor inquired about Fred's illness and his work with radionics and signals. The visitor assured Fred there was no cause for alarm and that he would meet someone who could help him, advising him to be prepared for great changes and contacts. After the visitor left, Fred felt no pain, and his lung condition improved. Subsequent X-rays revealed the lung had fully healed without a scar, puzzling his doctor. Fred became convinced that this visitor was the same person he had seen inside the flying saucer at Richards Bay.

Essentials of Astronomy

This section, written by Gregory Roberts, provides a concise overview of the planets in our Solar System. It classifies planets as Terrestrial (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Pluto) and Giant (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) based on size. It describes Mercury as difficult to see due to its proximity to the sun, Venus as the brightest planet (morning or evening star), and Mars as a reddish star with surface features similar to the moon, noting its distance from Earth and its two small satellites. Jupiter is described as a giant object visible in small telescopes. Saturn is highlighted for its unique ring system and ten moons. Uranus and Neptune are noted as difficult to see without telescopes, and Pluto, discovered in 1930, is only visible as a starlike object even with large telescopes.

Extracts from the Book "I Have Been on the Planet Mars"

Part II of this extract, by Narciso Genovese, details his alleged journey to Mars. Genovese, an Italian scientist and pupil of Guglielmo Marconi, claims to have been one of nine scientists who contacted "Visitors" from Mars. These visitors allegedly helped them build spaceships in underground workshops in the Andes. After construction, they journeyed to the moon, exchanged their craft for a larger disc-shaped ship, and then traveled to Mars in a convoy of eleven vessels at an average speed of 3,800,000 miles per hour. Upon approaching Mars, they sighted the satellite Phobos (called SORI by Martians). The surface of Mars displayed islands, inland seas, and continents. They were met by thousands of Martians. The landing was uneventful, and the nine Earth visitors stayed for five days, experiencing Martian life. Genovese learned that Mars is one-third water (lakes and canals, no oceans) and two-thirds land, mostly flat with few mountains. Phobos is described as an artificial satellite. The Martian population is estimated at 600,000,000, with advanced agriculture, forestry, and metallurgy. Political and social life were governed by a "board of Governors" chosen by majority vote, with no need for army or police as law-breaking was treated as a malady. Medicine was advanced, focusing on preventive care and viewing the body as the "Temple of the Soul". Women served as teachers, with all children educated at home. Religion, centered around a deity known as SUNDI, taught that "God is" and "All exists through God". Death was not viewed as final. The extract concludes with Genovese's quote: "The Martians come in peace and look forward to our friendship."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alleged alien contact, and space exploration, alongside a factual presentation of astronomical bodies. The editorial stance is one of openness to unexplained phenomena and a willingness to explore new organizational directions based on perceived developments in the field, as evidenced by the name change and the embrace of the "Contact" movement. There is a clear focus on personal testimonies and reported encounters, balanced with a section dedicated to scientific astronomical information.

This issue of CONTACT magazine, dated November 19th, 1967, focuses on UFO phenomena, particularly a sighting in the Berg region. The issue includes personal testimonies, discussions on preparing for potential extraterrestrial contact, and announcements for upcoming meetings and activities.

Flying Saucers in the Berg

This section details a specific UFO sighting that occurred at 1:15 a.m. on November 19th, 1967, near Giant's Castle base camp, witnessed by four individuals. The object was described as a very bright, intense star-like entity that traveled in a north-easterly direction at approximately 45 degrees above the camp. It remained in sight for 15 minutes. Initially, it followed a straight course at a steady speed, then began to zig-zag, branching off at a 45-degree angle before suddenly stopping dead. It then dropped vertically at great speed and hovered for a few minutes. Subsequently, it returned to its original course and disappeared into the clouds. Approximately three minutes later, it reappeared in what appeared to be a square shape and then slowly disappeared. The object was initially as bright as Venus but became less brilliant and smaller as it traveled.

Optical Illusion or Fact?

Authored by E.H. Viles from Durban, this article addresses the skepticism faced by individuals who claim to have seen flying saucers. Viles shares his personal conviction, stating he has seen five such machines over approximately 19 years. He posits that members of CONTACT likely believe to some extent, otherwise they would not be members. Viles recounts his first sighting, which he describes as a "mother ship" over Bedford View near Johannesburg. This object was gigantic, rising from the ground about half a mile away. It was standing on end like a cigar with a ring rising to the middle, which he identified as the motive power. He likened it to "a big sausage with a doughnut round the middle." The object was about 300 feet high and 100 feet in diameter, shining a metallic grey. It had a series of round windows from top to bottom. Viles was ten years old at the time of this sighting.

His second sighting, witnessed by himself and hundreds of others in 1953, involved an object that descended from the sky for six consecutive nights. It stayed in the eastern sky, pulsating with different colors from green to orange, red, light blue, and back to green. This was a round object with many visible windows, observed through binoculars. It flew at a height of about 2,000 feet and hovered for about a quarter of an hour before moving in a semi-circle towards the north at an estimated speed of 2,000 miles per hour. This maneuver was repeated four times before the object disappeared into space.

The third, fourth, and possibly fifth craft were, according to Viles, the same one seen over a period of two years from his current address, which offers an uninterrupted view of Woodlands, Rossburgh, Seaview, Cato Ridge, and Pinetown in the Durban area.

Viles concludes by expressing his belief that these entities are patiently watching, waiting, and seeking to help humanity if accepted.

Trends for the New Year

This section suggests the formation of small study groups in the upcoming year to explore various subjects related to UFOs and potential contact. The suggested topics include:

1. Astronomy
2. Space Communication (Electronics)
3. Mental Telepathy
4. E.S.P. (Extra Sensory Perception)
5. Metaphysics
6. Psychosynthesis

These allied subjects are intended to prepare members for a "meeting with the 'Visitors from Space'." Interested individuals, especially those with knowledge in these areas, are encouraged to contact the Secretary. Assistance will be provided for those wishing to form groups in their own vicinities, particularly those living away from Durban. The magazine emphasizes that these studies will be beneficial for future "Contact" with "Space People" and will aid in understanding other worlds.

Activities in the Skies

This brief report notes that very little has been reported over the Republic of South Africa in the last three months, with observation sheets being practically empty. However, there has been a large spate of sightings in England, many of which were in the form of illuminated flying crosses.

Notices

This section contains announcements for upcoming meetings and field activities.

Meetings

Meetings are scheduled for Thursday, February 29th, 1968, and March 31st, 1968. They will take place at the usual time of 7:30 p.m. at "The Centre," 3rd Floor, Prince of Wales Buildings, 380 Smith Street, Durban. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Field Activities

More field activities, including "Skywatches and Picnics," are planned for the summer months. Those interested in participating are asked to send a postcard with their name, address, and telephone number to the Secretary. Due to the short notice sometimes involved, the telephone is considered the quickest means of communication.

Questions, suggestions, and articles in both English and Afrikaans are welcomed, subject to approval.

The correspondence address is: Secretary, P.O. Box 2320, Durban.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around personal UFO sightings, the credibility of witnesses, and the preparation for potential extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and encouragement for investigation and study into these phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on community building through study groups and shared experiences, fostering a sense of collective inquiry into the unexplained. The magazine actively promotes the idea that 'visitors' are present and that humanity should be ready to engage with them, suggesting a proactive approach to understanding the universe beyond Earth.