Skywatch - No 12 - 1970 03-05

Magazine Overview

Title: Skywatch
Issue: No. 12
Date: March/April/May 1970
Publisher: CONTACT (S.A)
Country: South Africa
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial: The New Age Dawns

The editorial, dated March/April/May 1970, notes a relative quietude in UFO sightings over the past year but emphasizes that the after-effects of previous visits are becoming apparent. The proliferation of books and the formation of groups dedicated to investigating UFO phenomena indicate a growing public interest. The belief that humanity is not alone in the universe and that life may exist beyond the 3-dimensional level is gaining traction. The editorial posits that the time is approaching when physicists and metaphysicians will collaborate, recognizing the interconnectedness of seen and unseen worlds operating on different frequencies. This integration is seen as a necessary step for humanity's evolution, heralding a 'New Age' where old beliefs will yield to new truths.

The Layman at Large: Density and Etheric Doubles

This section, drawing from extracts of the book "THE COMING OF THE GUARDIANS" compiled by Meade Layne, M.A., explores the concept of density. It contrasts the physics definition of density (matter per unit volume) with a hypothetical scenario involving a brick cube vaporized within a container. The vaporized substance, though containing the same amount of matter, becomes invisible and intangible. The text suggests that under pressure, a large number of such vaporized cubes could occupy the same volume, greatly increasing density. This leads to the concept of an 'etheric double,' a duplicate of a physical object in etheric matter that may persist after the physical object's destruction. These etheric doubles are proposed to be material and potentially of higher density than their original objects, yet invisible and intangible.

Concepts of the Ether

This part of the magazine addresses the perceived outdatedness of the ether hypothesis in physics. It argues that the ether remains a reality and a logical necessity, citing physicists like C.W. Richardson, Bertrand Russell, and Tydal. Quotes suggest that electrons and hydrogen nuclei might be states of strain in the ether, and that 'empty space' is a meaningless concept. The text proposes that phenomena like instantaneous electron orbit changes and the movement of 'aeroforms' (UFOs) might occur without intervening space, suggesting a transition between frequencies rather than travel through physical space, thus eliminating the need for time in transit.

Telepathic Work by Alice A. Bailey

This section, taken from "Telepathy & The Etheric Vehicle" by Alice A. Bailey, discusses telepathy as a force related to emanations, radiations, and energy currents. It emphasizes the conscious use of energy centers for effective telepathic work, warning against confusion arising from mismatched centers or emotional strain. The text outlines two key aspects for disciples learning telepathic sensitivity: identifying the most active of one's three bodies (physical, emotional, mental) and understanding which center is most expressive for contacting modern conditions. It categorizes telepathic work into three types: soul to soul (highest), soul to mind, and soul, mind, and brain. It also details telepathic communication between individuals, including soul-to-soul, mind-to-mind, and solar plexus-to-solar plexus (emotional). Furthermore, it describes group telepathic communication involving Masters, disciples, and spiritual hierarchies, distinguishing between instinctual, mental, and intuitional telepathy.

A Way of Service Through Telepathy

This article describes a daily service held at the Centre in Durban at 12:00 midday, where thoughts of healing and peace are projected globally. It invites members and friends worldwide to join mentally, visualizing a blazing sun or star sending rays of healing, peace, understanding, and tolerance. The service aims to connect with other groups working for world peace under the direction of Christ and angelic beings. It highlights that even a minute of focused thought can contribute, and encourages participants to remember the animal world and nature. The article also mentions "The Great Invocation" as a universal prayer used during this service.

Message from the Moon: Telepathy Experiments

This piece reports on a secret mission by the nuclear submarine USS Nautilus in the summer of 1959, which involved a 16-day cruise under the Atlantic as an experiment in telepathy. Revealed seven years later by the US Navy, the mission is described as science-fiction-like. The article states that telepathy is now considered a scientific fact, with Russia and America investing heavily in its development. Early experiments on the Nautilus were reportedly seventy percent successful. It details a test where a scientist in isolation concentrated on symbols, while another scientist a thousand miles away attempted to visualize them. The article notes that both nations are experimenting with telepathy for different aims: enabling astronaut communication without equipment and allowing agents to transmit information covertly. It also suggests telepathy could solve communication problems with submarines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of consciousness, the nature of reality beyond the physical, and the potential of telepathy and other psychic phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that embraces metaphysical concepts and integrates them with emerging scientific understanding, particularly in the context of UFOs and the concept of a 'New Age.' There is a clear editorial leaning towards the idea that conventional scientific paradigms are insufficient to explain all phenomena, and that a broader, more inclusive understanding, incorporating spiritual and psychic dimensions, is necessary.

This issue of 'Saucer' magazine, identified by its issue number 11, focuses on parapsychology and UFO sightings. The main cover headline highlights Dr. Rhine's assertion that Psi phenomena have a supernatural source. The magazine also includes an announcement regarding the resignation of its National Chairman, Phillipp Human.

Parapsychology and Dr. J.B. Rhine

The issue features an in-depth discussion on parapsychology, with a particular focus on the work of Dr. J.B. Rhine, described as one of America's foremost experts in the field, who has dedicated over forty years to its study. According to Dr. Rhine, parapsychology, or 'Psi', encompasses four distinct branches:

• Telepathy: The ability to communicate with another person solely through thought-waves.
• Clairvoyance: The power to 'see' an event occurring at a distance.
• Premonition: The gift of insight into future events.
• Psychokinesis: The ability to influence solid objects using thought-waves.

The article notes that while claims of 'gifted' people causing objects to rise through concentration have often been dismissed as fiction, scientists are now reconsidering them. Dr. Rhine's perspective diverges from many experts as he does not believe Psi is purely a physical occurrence. He posits that the brain emits electromagnetic energy, akin to a radio transmitter, which is then received by another brain. However, Dr. Rhine extends this theory further, maintaining that Psi originates from a supernatural source, one that transcends the boundaries of the human mind itself.

The article concludes with Dr. Rhine's conviction that a significant breakthrough into understanding the human mind is imminent.

Announcement of Resignation

A formal announcement expresses regret over the withdrawal of Mr. Phillipp Human, the National Chairman, from all 'Saucer' activities for personal reasons. The magazine extends a "Thank you" to Mr. Human for his leadership, inspiration, and enthusiasm in the field.

Young Skywatchers: How to Speak with Your Mind

This section explores the concept of telepathy, drawing parallels with animal communication. It questions how animals, despite having similar vocal apparatus to humans, communicate complex intentions, citing examples of dogs, cats, and lions. The article suggests that animals use a form of telepathy, communicating mentally rather than vocally, especially in situations requiring coordinated action, such as a lion hunt. It then posits that advanced civilizations, like 'space people', frequently use telepathy, and that humans can also develop this ability with practice.

The section provides a practical guide for practicing telepathy:

1. Find a suitable partner: Choose a close friend.
2. Set aside time: Find a quiet, undisturbed place.
3. Designate roles: One person is the 'sender', the other the 'receiver'.
4. Start with simple subjects: Begin with easy concepts like favorite colors, flowers, or animals.
5. Sender's role: The sender must clearly visualize the chosen subject (e.g., a beautiful red rose) and then visualize the partner receiving it. The sender must not reveal the subject to the partner.
6. Receiver's role: The receiver must sit quietly, relax, and try to tune into the sender, looking for mental images or feelings of the transmitted subject.

The article encourages practice, stating that consistent effort leads to better results, and suggests progressing to sending short messages. It concludes by calling telepathy practice "tremendous fun."

Sighting: Kevin Birnie Visscher

A brief sighting report details an account from Kevin Birnie Visscher, age 8, with two witnesses. On Wednesday, February 4th, at 3 p.m., he reported seeing a flying saucer moving slowly for one minute before it disappeared. The object was described as silver with grey wheels and travelled eastwards, hovering for half a minute and moving in and out of the clouds.

Sightings

This section compiles several UFO sighting reports:

• Pretoria Sighting (December 2, 1969): Jimmy Conway and six to eight other observers at Voortrekkerhoogte Air Force Base witnessed a round, red, diffused ball, the size of the midnight moon, hanging in the sky over ISCOR (Iron & Steel Works) at an 80° elevation. They watched it for about ten minutes before it faded over 10-15 seconds. No clouds were present, but stars and a high mist were visible.

• "Ball of Fire Over Durban" (December 11, 1969): Reported by the Daily News, this incident involved a mysterious 'ball of fire' appearing over Durban at approximately 10:30 a.m. Described as a "brilliant white ball with orange flames licking off the tail," it was first reported by Mr. J. Summerfield. He estimated its size to be that of a small car and that it fell somewhere between the Umgeni River and the city, disappearing after a few seconds, about a quarter of a mile above the earth. Miss J. Wood, a Municipal Medical Aid office worker, also witnessed a "white ball of flames" shoot down nearby. The Durban Meteorological Office had no comment.

• Mrewa, Rhodesia Sighting (January 30, 1970): Two policemen on patrol saw three UFOs appear in the sky for about 1.5 minutes, hovering in a red glow before disappearing behind a hill. During the sighting, their patrol car's headlights suddenly failed and then came back on ten minutes later after the UFOs had vanished. Several farmers also reported seeing "objects" that night. Police constable P/O Walthew described the objects as having red lights underneath, being flat-tish and oval, and trailing a white glow. He noted they disappeared behind the hill at "great speed." The distance was estimated at half a mile and a couple of hundred feet up.

• UFO Sighted Over Sedgefield (January 2, 1970): Reported by the George & Knysna Herald, an unidentified flying object was sighted from Montmere on Christmas night at 9 p.m. The object was visible for 24 hours before moving north. Initially hovering over mountains, it was observed by twenty people, including a qualified pilot who ruled out it being a meteorological balloon or aircraft. Miss Marlene Betz watched for over 2 hours and described it as a "fascinating sight," distinct from stars. It seemed to change shape from round to oval, moved in a zig-zag course, and emitted a blazing light that varied from orange-red to brilliant green. Another spectator noted its peculiar movements, sometimes stationary and then shooting off. Attempts to report the sighting via telephone were hindered by an out-of-order party line.

Meetings for the Next Few Months

This section provides a schedule of upcoming meetings for 'Contact' groups in various South African cities:

• Durban: Meetings are held on the third Friday of each month at 8 p.m. at The Centre, 3rd Floor, Prince of Wales Building, 384 Smith Street. The time has been changed from 7:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Johannesburg: Meetings are scheduled for March 9th, April 13th, and May 11th, all at 8 p.m. The meeting place is 17, Westmeath Road, Parkview. New attendees are advised to contact Mrs. Neslie Schmutz.
• Pretoria: A meeting is scheduled for April 17th at 8 p.m. at Theosophical Hall, 424 Skinner Street. All are welcome. The Chairman is Mr. Johan Jacobs.
• East London: Meetings are held at irregular intervals. Interested individuals should contact the Chairman, Mr. E.E. Buttner.

The correspondence address for the Secretary is P.O. Box 2720, Durban.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of parapsychological phenomena, particularly telepathy and its potential origins, and the reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs). The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance towards these subjects, presenting scientific theories alongside anecdotal evidence and encouraging reader engagement through practical exercises like telepathy practice. The editorial tone is informative and investigative, aiming to present findings and encourage further inquiry into the mysteries of the mind and the skies.