Skywatch - No 34 - 1976 03-05

Magazine Overview

Title: AQUARIAN NEWS
Issue: No. 2
Date: March 1976
Publisher: AQUARIAN ESTATES
Incorporating: SKYWATCH

This issue of Aquarian News, dated March 1976, is presented as the second edition and incorporates 'Skywatch'. It is published quarterly by Aquarian Estates, located at P.O. Box 2, Thornville Junction, 3760.

Our News and Views

The editorial section reflects on the past season, noting the heavy rains in Natal which affected vegetable crops but provided lessons on planting techniques using a press-pot system. The peach trees, despite the rain, yielded a plentiful crop, with plans to plant more and experiment with nectarines and apricots. A significant compost-making program is underway, aiming for 50 tons of compost monthly, utilizing grass and weeds with a specially constructed grass catcher. New members have joined the community, including Dan and Eve from the Cape, Victor, Errol (a Yoga teacher from Johannesburg), and Gareth and Sue from Johannesburg. The growing number of members and courses necessitates more accommodation, with plans for thatched rondavels to prepare for winter.

The organization is working on a budget, inspired by the Findhorn community, and seeks to build a 'Point of Light, Love and Power'. They offer monthly courses covering Yoga, biological farming, and health, with full board and accommodation available for R5 per day. A Homoeopathic Clinic is held on the first Sunday of each month, featuring talks on health by Evelyn. Groups are invited to use the center's facilities.

From the Age of Leo to the Age of Aquarius

This article, compiled from Vera Reid's 'Towards Aquarius', explores the concept of twelve astrological ages, each lasting approximately 2,000 years, and their influence on human evolution.

• Age of Leo (approx. 10,000 B.C. to 8,000 B.C.): Ruled by the Sun, this age was characterized by vital power, spiritual kingship, and the worship of the Father principle.
• Age of Cancer (approx. 8,000 B.C. to 6,000 B.C.): Ruled by the Moon, this age emphasized the Mother principle, family, home, and the inner soul life. Ancient rock shrines and the worship of the Great Mother Goddess were prevalent.
• Age of Gemini (approx. 6,000 B.C. to 4,000 B.C.): This mental age, ruled by Mercury, saw the rise of reasoning, ingenuity, and invention. Duality was a key feature, reflecting the dual nature of humanity (spirit and matter).
• Age of Taurus (approx. 4,000 B.C. to 2,000 B.C.): Ruled by Venus, this age focused on material prosperity, practical philosophy, and the acquisition of possessions. Egypt reached its zenith during this period, with the worship of the bull 'Apis' and the Great Mother Goddess Isis.

The article notes that the 'Ramayana', an epic detailing the struggle between good and evil, reflects the duality of the Gemini Age. It also mentions the Minotaur as the deity of Crete during the Taurus age and the 'Island of the White Bull' for Britain.

What Is It?

This section provides a glossary of esoteric terms:

• Atlantis: A submerged continent, home of the Fourth Root Race.
• Ashram: A center for disciples and aspirants.
• Aura: A subtle, electro-vital and electro-mental essence.
• Buddha (The): Gautama, the 'Enlightened' one.
• Deva: A celestial being, also referred to as an Angel.
• Elementals: Spirits of the Elements (Earth, Air, Fire, Water).
• Kundalini: The power of Life, centered within the spine.
• Lemuria: A continent preceding Atlantis, home of the Third Root Race.
• Macrocosm: The great universe or God manifesting through the solar system.
• Microcosm: The little universe, or man manifesting through his body.

A Clarification of Love

This article posits that humanity is experiencing a revolution in its understanding of love, moving from personal relationships to recognizing love as a universal, cosmic energy. It defines love as an action of a transcendent power that flows endlessly, capable of sweeping away pain and sorrow. The article suggests that humanity's difficulty in loving as a whole stems from limiting love to personal capacity. It contrasts planetary knowledge with cosmic love, questioning why humans respond more readily to knowledge. The core instruction is to love God and neighbors as oneself, emphasizing that what is given out is measured back. True brotherhood and harmonious relationships are presented as the result of discovering and acting upon these loving connections.

The article concludes by stating that the 'advent of true peace' depends on modifying human thinking and relationships, and that the responsibility for the last third of the century lies with individuals. It references a series of radio programme texts available from Triangles, International Headquarters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly advocates for spiritual growth, astrological understanding, and the practical application of universal principles like love and goodwill. The editorial stance is one of promoting a New Age consciousness, emphasizing community, self-improvement, and a connection to cosmic energies. There is a clear focus on esoteric knowledge and its integration into daily life, as evidenced by the articles on astrological ages, the nature of love, and the glossary of terms. The practical aspects of community living at Aquarian Estates, including gardening and courses, are also highlighted, suggesting a holistic approach to spiritual and physical well-being.

Title: Skywatch
Issue: No. 34
Date: March/April/May, 1976
Publisher: Contact (SA)
Country: South Africa

This issue of Skywatch magazine delves into spiritual and esoteric themes alongside extensive reporting on international UFO activities and sightings.

Extracts and Articles

The Quest for Divine Light

This section features an extract from "The Spirit of Masonry" by Foster Bailey. It recounts a myth where gods, after stealing humanity's divinity, decide to hide it within humans themselves, as this is the last place they would think to look. The piece also includes a Sh'vet Upanishad verse expressing adoration for the divine in various forms and a poem by Rabindranath Tagore reflecting on the transformation of life's perception from joy to duty, and then to joy found in duty.

The Hidden Side of Things

An extract from "THE HIDDEN SIDE OF THINGS" by C.W. Leadbeater discusses the concept of nature spirits and their distinct evolutionary path from humanity. It posits that divine life manifests through multiple streams, with humanity being just one. The extract uses a parable of a teacher pushing a student into the Ganges River to emphasize that true knowledge is attained only when desired with the same intensity as the need for air.

Editorial

The editorial announces the National Skywatch for 1976, scheduled for the second weekend in April, encouraging participation from all South African groups. It highlights the Durban Group's plans for a seminar and a 48-hour skywatch at Aquarian Estates from April 9th to 11th. The editorial invites country members to join and suggests that those unable to attend specific group events should still conduct a special watch on the skies. It also mentions an endeavor to make contact at all levels, including telepathic contact.

The International Scene

Authored by Frank van Vloten, National Secretary and International Vice-President, this section provides an update on international UFO organizations. It expresses regret over the resignation of The Hon. Brinsley le Poer Trench as President of Contact International, who has succeeded to the title of Earl of Clancarty and will be spending time in the House of Lords. Dr. J. Cleary-Baker is introduced as the new President, noted as a respected ufologist and former editor of the BUFORA Journal. The article emphasizes the global reach of Contact International, embracing 37 member countries, with active correspondence maintained with 16 of them. It notes the closure of Contact Rhodesia due to lack of interest but mentions the emergence of new groups. The author thanks international collaborators and provides updates from various countries:

• Argentine: Mentions correspondence with Professor Richard Frondizi and the organization C.E.F.A.I.
• Chile: Notes correspondence with Alberto Bernal-Berk in Santiago.
• Denmark: Reports on the Danish UFO centre run by Willy Wegner.
• Eire (Ireland): Introduces Contact Ireland, organized by Fergus Roche, and its periodical 'Planet Man'.
• Holland: Details the efforts of Christien de Witte and later Mr. J. Oomkens in maintaining the Dutch group, and mentions correspondence with Rey d'Aquila.
• Italy: Highlights communication with Luigi Guarrera and Antonello Rizzo, who requested permission to translate Skywatch articles.
• Mexico: Acknowledges greetings from Ian Norrie.
• New Zealand: Mentions contact with Philip Austin and the magazine 'New World', as well as other organizations like New Zealand Scientific Space Research and 'Heralds of the New Age'. The work of Henk Hinfelaar is noted for his comprehensive UFO material collection.
• Puerto Rico: Noel Rigau's UFO activity report for 1975 is mentioned, detailing a UFO wave coinciding with mass animal slaughter. Cases involved missing animal parts, drained blood, and humanoid sightings. Mysterious explosions were also reported in San Juan and Ponce. No conclusive results were reached despite police investigations.
• Scandinavia: Covered by Skandinavisk U.F.O. Information, based in Denmark, publishing 'UFO-NYT'. Prince Philip of England is noted as an enthusiastic UFO follower.
• Sweden: Edith Nicolaisen is the official contact, working at the Parthenon reference library.
• Turkey: Contact Turkey is relatively new, managed by Mehmet Arkun Kunter.
• United Kingdom (England): Mentions Contact U.K. and its publication 'Awareness', edited by Bernard Delair. The 'UFO Register' by Data Research Headquarters is described as a comprehensive compilation of sightings up to 1974. Other publications like 'Aquarius Viewpoint' and 'The New Humanity' are also noted.
• U.S.A.: Contact U.S.A. is now led by Bryce de Loach, who publishes the monthly journal 'Terranean Chronicle', covering diverse topics from parapsychology to space travel.
• Venezuela: A cordial letter from Andrés Boulton, the ICM, is mentioned; he is a writer with wide interests.
• Yugoslavia: A report by Vincent Strmenik details a UFO flap involving sightings by aviation professionals, including circular to triangular UFOs with tails, color changes, and unusual movements. Severe radio disturbances were reported, and one UFO emitted a great explosion. A building in Maribor was partially destroyed by an explosion. Strmenik's quote, "we are not alone - not on the planet and not in the universe", reflects a sentiment against the lack of official explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes international cooperation and information sharing within the UFO research community. There is a clear emphasis on the global nature of UFO phenomena and the importance of connecting with researchers worldwide. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, spiritual development, and the potential for contact at various levels. The magazine also seems to have a spiritual or esoteric leaning, as evidenced by the inclusion of philosophical and religious texts alongside UFO reports. The publication relies on voluntary subscriptions for its financing, indicating a community-driven effort.

This issue of 'Contact' magazine, dated December 1975, features a prominent article titled 'A U.F.O?' by Elesa Willies from Durban. The magazine focuses on UFO sightings and related investigations, alongside information about the organization's activities.

A U.F.O?

The main article details a telephone call received by the author on December 29, 1975, from the South African Broadcasting Corporation (S.A.B.C.) inquiring about a silvery object seen near the Moon. The report originated from someone in Kloof who spotted the object and alerted air controllers at the S.A.B.C. The object was observed by the air controller and five other people, initially as a 'glint of light' and then more closely through binoculars.

The author and a few 'Contact' members then searched the sky and located a faint crescent Moon. To the right and slightly below the Moon, they spotted the UFO. Six members observed it through binoculars, and three also saw it with the naked eye. Initially, it resembled a celestial body, but closer inspection revealed a softly luminous light, unlike the sharp brightness of a star. Descriptions of its shape varied, with one member suggesting it was cigar-shaped and another describing it as more spherical. A sceptic in the group conceded it did not look like a star but speculated it might be a weather balloon.

The group watched the object for nearly three hours, during which it did not move. Clouds eventually made visibility impossible. The author contacted two members of the Astronomical Society for an explanation. One astronomer attempted to view the object with a telescope, but haze obscured the sky. Consulting charts, he identified Neptune (1/8th magnitude, impossible to see) and Antares (a red giant) as possible celestial bodies in the vicinity. Mr. Gray, Chairman of the Astronomical Society, found the idea of it being a planet unlikely and suggested it might be a Super Nova, which would likely remain in the same position the following day. He was inclined to dismiss the weather balloon theory due to the object's immobility.

The following morning was overcast and remained so for three days, preventing further observation. The object was not seen again, and no definite conclusion was reached regarding its origin, leaving open the possibility that it was a UFO.

Another Report

A second report describes a similar event around 10:00 a.m. on December 29, 1975. Lorraine Johnson, while sunbathing, noticed a 'glint of light' high up to the right of the Moon. She called her sister, father, and a friend, who then invited neighbours with binoculars. They watched the object intermittently for a couple of hours until clouds obscured the view. The object's position was noted as being at approximately 2:00 o'clock initially and dropping to 3:00 o'clock by the last viewing.

Editor's Remarks

The editor commented on the significance of the sighting, noting that many people witnessed it, some independently reporting the same object. The involvement of two astronomers added to the interest. The editor consulted Raphael's Ephemeris to check the positions of celestial bodies for December 29, 1975. The positions of the Moon (Long. 27.44 Scorpio, Lat. 0.36 North, Dec. 19.4 South) and Venus (Long. 26.24 Scorpio, Lat. 2.16 North, Dec. 17.8 South) were noted. Uranus was also in Scorpio but not visible to the naked eye. The editor suggested that the close proximity of the Moon and Venus in the same area of the sky at midday might account for the spectacle, noting that eight people on a skywatch had seen Venus at noon. The moon is identified as a satellite of the Earth, not a planet.

Meeting Times and Venues of the Branches

The issue also provides details for the 'Contact' group's branches:

• Durban: Meets the fourth Wednesday of every month at 8 p.m. at The Centre, 3rd Floor, Progress House, Hermitage Street, Durban.
• Johannesburg: Meets the first Monday of every month at 8 p.m. Contact Mrs. Elizabeth Klarer at 3 Cottage Place, 394 Rifle Range Road, Towerby (phone 322084).
• Cape Town: Meets the last Friday of every month at 8 p.m. Contact Mr. André Nestel at 9 Schoonvrught Lane, Constantia.

All correspondence should be sent to the National Secretary, Contact, P.O. Box 743, Durban, 4000.

The Great Invocation

The issue concludes with a spiritual text titled 'The Great Invocation,' a prayer or invocation for light, love, and power to restore a divine plan on Earth. It is presented as a poem with distinct stanzas focusing on different aspects of divine will and purpose.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, witness reports, and attempts to find rational or scientific explanations, while also acknowledging the possibility of unexplained events ('UFO'). The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation, seeking expert opinions (astronomers) and cross-referencing with astronomical data. The inclusion of 'The Great Invocation' suggests a spiritual or philosophical dimension to the 'Contact' group's broader interests beyond just UFOs.