Skywatch - No 24

Magazine Overview

This issue of SKYWATCH, identified as No. 24, is dated June/July 1977 and is published by The Manchester Aerial Phenomena Investigation Team (MAPIT). The publication is described as an informal journal devoted to UFOlogy and related subjects, with views expressed by contributors not necessarily shared by the group or editor. Items can be reproduced in full or part, and the editorial address is provided as 92, Hillcrest Road, Offerton, Stockport, Cheshire, SK2 5SE, England. The telephone number is 061-483-4210. MAPIT was founded in 1973.

Letters Section

Letter from Mr. R. Markwick

Mr. R. Markwick, Technical Advisor, Lecturer, and UFO Investigator for the Essex UFO Study Group, praises the magazine's presentation and content, stating it offers something for everyone interested in UFOs and 'food for thought' for sceptics. He agrees with a previous letter that the BBC2's 'Bermuda Triangle' documentary was 'rubbish' and 'amateurish'. Markwick points out that many instances of disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle occurred in calm seas with clear skies, and that the disappearance of both organic and inorganic matter suggests foul play rather than natural causes. He also notes the growing interest in the Bermuda Triangle phenomena, including from Russian scientists. He expresses hope that Paul Jackson will find enlightening information in the issue regarding contactee cases.

Letter from Paul Jackson

Paul Jackson of the Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre, Australia, outlines the group's plans for 1977. As an investigatory group, they will continue to investigate reports and refine their methods. They will hold the second National UFO Conference in October and are involved in a country-wide programme of cataloging UFO sightings. Jackson will be compiling an Australian Car Pacing Catalogue and preparing a paper on UFOlogical Terminology. He emphasizes the importance of well-documented cases over sensationalized reports and hopes to make their catalogues available to serious researchers.

Letter from David Coote

David Coote from Luton, Beds., discusses his reading on UFOs, particularly commending Brinsley Le Poer Trench's books. He expresses disappointment with Arthur Shuttlewood's 'The Flying Saucers', finding its speculations not based on facts or logical argument. Coote believes that UFO activities should be debated openly, involving governments, to move the discussion to a higher level. He suggests that the existence of extraterrestrial life implies multiple developing civilizations. He advocates for avoiding anthropocentrism and viewing ourselves as unique.

Letter from Elizabeth Werner

Elizabeth Werner of Inner-Space Interpreters Services, Burbank, California, USA, informs Mr. Rees that 'THE 1977 GUIDE TO OCCULT PERIODICALS' is available and lists SKYWATCH. She requests that SKYWATCH readers be informed of this service, emphasizing the importance of supporting such publications to prevent their demise.

Letter from William Roache

William Roache of Granada TV, Manchester, thanks Mr. Frost for his letter and copy of SKYWATCH, finding it interesting and valid. He suggests that to embrace a wider readership, the magazine could include other phenomena like Astral Travel and Out of the Body experiences, which are connected to UFO work. While not wishing for a special affiliation, he offers to assist with an article or interview.

Letter from Angela Carthy

Angela Carthy from Stoke on Trent, Staffs., recounts an incident where her fiancé, Ian Hibberd, witnessed a silver saucer-shaped object, about the size of a bungalow, in a field. The object vanished in seconds. She notes that Hibberd, who previously didn't believe in UFOs, was frightened and wanted to forget the experience. Carthy discusses various theories about UFOs, including the Hollow Earth and parallel universe theories, but personally believes they are from outer space. She speculates about past contact with Atlanteans and Lemurians and the possibility of a past nuclear war. She questions why governments don't believe in UFOs and suggests they might react with military force if contacted.

Letter from Edward Harris

Edward Harris, Editor of Cosmology Newslink, praises SKYWATCH as the best magazine for UFO information he has seen. He finds it inspiring and feels it reconnected him to the UFO field, recalling his first amazing sighting in 1965. He mentions that SKYWATCH and NUFON News are his favorite periodicals.

Carter Denial

This section reports on a statement by President Jimmy Carter regarding his belief in UFOs and his promise to release suppressed USAF and official information. MAPIT received information from the Danish UFO Group, Scandinavian UFO Information, stating that Governor Carter had seen a UFO but never said he would pursue them as President. The response was sent by Vicki Sparks, Special Assistant.

News Clips

Leonard Nimoy Feature

An item from STAG Newsletter No. 22 (March 1977) highlights Leonard Nimoy, known for Star Trek, hosting a new series called 'In Search of...' which will tackle unexplained phenomena. Bristol-Myers committed $1.3 million for 24 30-minute shows, including segments on UFO Landings, the Loch Ness Monster, Dracula, Voodoo, ESP, Stonehenge, Missing Nazi Treasure, and witchcraft. Six books on the scripts are commissioned from producer Alan Lansburg.

Staffordshire Sentinel (9th January 1977)

Mrs. Dilys Tucker reported seeing a 'long glowing object' in the sky near Crewe, similar to a report published the previous week. She described it as a bright light that vanished suddenly.

Stoke on Trent Evening Sentinel (8th February 1977)

A photograph taken in 1971 by two Staffordshire Policemen of an unidentified flying object hovering over a garage is presented as a six-year-old mystery. A new UFO sighting was reported at Newcastle, where pupils at Edenhurst School saw an object flying through the sky for about 15 minutes, changing to silver and orange colours.

Hobart Mercury (21st February 1977)

Mrs. J. Bigwood, President of the Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre, criticizes 'fringe' elements for 'cashing in' on UFO research. She states that out of 175 reports in Tasmania, only 29 were listed as UFOs, with others attributed to astronomical origins, aircraft, satellites, or other explanations.

SCAN (21st February 1977)

This publication notes that 'Violence' is a top subject for Americans, along with Sex and UFOs.

Daily Mirror (7th March 1977)

'Peeping Tom from Outer Space'

A young couple, Ian Hibberd and July Smith, claim their love life is being spied on by a mysterious UFO that appears when they are saying goodnight. They have seen it about eight times, and it glows and hovers for about two hours before disappearing.

Manchester Evening News (12th April 1977)

German Flying Saucers?

This article discusses the spontaneous combustion of marsh gas being mistaken for a flying saucer. It mentions leaflets about Flying Saucers and claims that German round-winged aircraft were mooted in 1944, with one petrol-engined aircraft supposedly capable of 3,000 m.p.h. The article also refers to Russian saucer aircraft propelled by CO-ton rockets reaching over 100,000 feet.

Daily Mirror (13th April 1977)

Mum in 80 MPH Chase with a Flying Saucer

Farmer's wife Pauling Coombes reported being chased by a 'Flying Football' which kept pace with her car for three miles near Broadhaven, South Wales. The object had a silver torch-like beam. She and her children were returning home when the object dropped from the sky. She was driving at 80 mph, but the object kept up. She stated she didn't believe in UFOs before but now is unsure.

Did You Know?

The abbot and Monks of Byland Abbey, Yorks, reported seeing a Flying Saucer in 1290.

Titbits (7th-13th April 1977)

'Mona Lisa' isn't smiling now

This section discusses a bizarre wager placed by Mrs. Ruth Norman, who claims to be the reincarnation of Loshanna and the woman who posed for the Mona Lisa. She wagered that flying saucers would land in El Cajon, California, on February 15th, to help solve world problems. The wager was 40-1 against, and if she had won, Ladbrokes would have lost around £140,000. She believed this event would have united 'reincarnated Masters'.

The Sun (18th April 1977)

Space bid to probe 'Triangle'

Space scientists are investigating the Bermuda Triangle. A 35ft boat was piloted 600 miles through the Triangle without incident, while a satellite monitored shipping movements.

Manchester Evening News (19th April 1977)

Cave Drawings of Spaceship

Strange drawings believed to be thousands of years old have been found in caves in the Baja California peninsula, Mexico. The drawings depict tall men and animals, and 'devices' that resemble spaceships or helicopters. Some drawings were in three-dimension form.

Sky Fireball

A fiery ball was seen in the skies over Central Italy, making a roaring noise, and is thought to have been a meteorite.

UFO Study urged

Sir Eric Gary, Prime Minister of Grenada, called on the United Nations to set up a special agency to monitor 'Alien activity from Outer Space'.

Back Issues

Information is provided on available back issues of SKYWATCH, including their contents. Issues 15, 16, and 18 are listed with their featured articles.

The Richard Adamson Lecture

This lecture, by Michele Piecha and Ken Stanley, discusses Richard Adamson, the sole surviving member of the 1922 Tutankhamen expedition. Adamson guarded the tomb for over seven years. He estimated the tomb's age and the boy king's age, but the cause of death is unknown. Inside the tomb, they found a gold goblet with sediment that turned out to be wine, tasting of mead after 4000 years. Adamson reported an incident where the animal's head on the mummy seemed to turn and look at him, and Carter appeared to slip back in time, muttering in a strange foreign language identified as ancient Egyptian. The tomb's roof had astronomical drawings, including stars only recently visible with new telescopes. The objects were carved from solid pieces, with some accomplishments deemed impossible today.

The Curse

Lord Carnarvon was bitten by a mosquito in the tomb and died of pneumonia in Cairo. A scar remained on his face. At the time of his death, the city's lights went out without technical reason. Carnarvon's son's dog also died at the same moment. Tutankhamen was found to have a scar in the same place as Lord Carnarvon, which appeared after mummification, posing a mystery as priests would not mummify skin with a scar.

Adamson later experienced a taxi crash, receiving a scar in the same place as Carnarvon and Tutankhamen, which has never disappeared.

An alabaster perfume jar from the tomb still gave off a faint perfume after 4000 years. The tomb also contained drawings of animals and a fox hunt.

Other Publications and Groups

The Essex Study Group

Requires UFO reports and related material for their journal. Credits are given, and a free journal is provided upon publication.

Foresight

A bi-monthly magazine focused on the spiritual aspect of man's being, covering Mysticism, Philosophy, Psychic Development, UFO's, and World Events. Subscription is 90p plus postage.

Lantern

The quarterly journal of the Borderline Science Investigation Group, covering a range of subjects including Ghosts, UFO's, Geomancy, Dowsing, Folklore, and Ley Lines. Annual subscription is 75p.

Cosmology Newslink

Cosmology is defined as the science of the universe. Cosmology Newslink is a publication that brings together inter-related subjects. Its summer issue includes articles on UFO sightings, the Bermuda Triangle, Gravity and Anti-Gravity, and World UFO News. It costs 25p per copy.

Skylook

The publication of the Dereham UFO Study Group (DUFOSG).

The Mystery of Earthquake Lights

This article by D.J. Parry discusses the phenomenon of earthquake lights, which have been recorded for thousands of years and are associated with earth tremors. These lights can manifest as fireballs, searchlight beams, flames, sparks, and mountain top glows. Parry notes that scientists have been unable to explain these phenomena and that some lights could be mistaken for UFOs. Examples are given from Sicily (1692/1693), Cyprus (1941 earthquake), and England (1885). The article also mentions the 'mountain top glow' phenomenon reported during earthquakes, particularly the Chilean earthquake of 1906, and compares earthquake lights to characteristics of UFOs, citing the Warminster case.

Watch This Space - Review

A review of a series of articles in the Manchester Evening News titled 'Watch This Space' concerning UFOs, researched by David Harrison. The review corrects inaccuracies in Harrison's reporting, such as the number of discs seen by Kenneth Arnold and the location of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams. It also notes that the press coined the term 'Flying Saucers', not Arnold.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SKYWATCH include UFO sightings from various locations, investigations into unexplained phenomena, and the challenges faced by UFO researchers in gaining credibility. There is a clear emphasis on presenting factual accounts and well-documented cases, as highlighted in Paul Jackson's letter. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFOs and related mysteries, while also cautioning against sensationalism and speculation not grounded in evidence. The inclusion of diverse reports, from personal sightings to historical accounts and scientific discussions, reflects a broad approach to the subject matter. The publication also serves as a platform for other UFO groups and publications to share information and promote their work.

This issue of SKYWATCH, dated February 1977 (Issue 24), is published by MAPIT and focuses on UFO phenomena, research, and related topics. The content is primarily in English and appears to be from the UK.

Critiques of UFO Reporting and Media Portrayals

The issue begins with a critique of a newspaper series that misrepresented UFO events, particularly concerning the 'beaming aboard' of witnesses and their car. The author refutes claims that most UFOlogists reject 'men from outer space' theories, asserting that many are open-minded. The article criticizes specific examples of UFO descriptions, such as Arthur Bloor's 'Malign spaceships' from Epsilon Bootis and the Aetherius Society's 'Martian vessels'. It also quotes Professor Zdenek Kopal's dismissive remarks about UFO research. The author concludes that such sensationalist approaches damage the credibility of local UFO research groups and that quality of reporting is more important than quantity.

Television Programs and UFOs

A section titled 'In Search Of...' discusses a television program by ATV Network. The producer, Mr. Richard Price, stated the program was a purely investigative look at the subject without drawing conclusions. The Bakewell family case and instances of lie-detector tests were featured. The program ended with the question, 'Is America being visited by beings from outer space?'. The author also mentions a program about Atlantis and asks for information from viewers who saw it.

Group News and Resources

D.G.Frost provides information on obtaining the 'Guide to Occult Periodicals 1977' and other magazines related to UFOs, dowsing, astrology, etc., from 'Inrer-Space Interpreters'. The section also notes the enrollment of new members in MAPIT and expresses hope that they enjoy future SKYWATCH issues.

UFO Book and Magazine Sources

Several addresses are provided for obtaining UFO-related books and magazines. These include Lionel Beer and Miss S. Stebbing for general UFO books, Quaser Books for paperbacks, and 'Flying Saucer Review' for a well-known UFO magazine.

Thames Television Broadcast

Thames Television broadcast a program on UFOs on April 12th, featuring a British Airways pilot's sighting, Professor John Taylor (who disagreed with the pilot), and a representative from Flying Saucer Review. The article asks for further information on this program.

MAPIT's Collection and Member Engagement

MAPIT has a collection of over 600 news clippings on UFOs, ghosts, and monsters, available for photocopies. The editorial team encourages reader feedback, questions, and suggestions for improvement, emphasizing the need for active participation to sustain the magazine.

SKYWATCH Special Issue and New Groups

SKYWATCH Special Issue No. 12, featuring UFO sightings in the North of England in 1973, is available. Information is also sought about a new group called the 'UK Investigators' Agency'.

German UFO Newspaper Mentions

The German UFO newspaper 'UFO Nachricten' featured two SKYWATCH cases: the January 1976 Padfield Oase sighting and the Norris Green Landing case.

Response to 'The Tomorrow People' Producer

David Frost received a reply from Roger Price, producer of the Thames TV program 'THE TOMORROW PEOPLE'. Price stated the program was for children, intended to give introverted children a 'secret dream' to help them through difficult times, and not to preoccupy them with psychic powers. He mentioned that actors were tested for ESP, but results were negative, and considered it a publicity stunt.

UFO Research in Europe

This extensive section details the work of K.L. Veit and the German UFO Research Society (DUIST). Veit has given over 400 lectures across 10 European countries and stimulated UFO research in Poland, Czechoslovakia, Norway, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Finland. The article highlights international UFO congresses held in Wiesbaden, attracting over 1000 guests and significant media attention. DUIST has published reference books on UFO research and translated numerous articles. The organization exchanges information with international magazines and research bodies. The 7th International World Congress of UFO Researchers in Wiesbaden in November 1967 is detailed, including an exhibition of UFO photos and a press conference. A 'Resolution and Mainz UFO-Proclamation' was forwarded to the UNO.

Government and UFO Research

Statements by General Secretary U Thant led to official UFO research agencies being set up by governments in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Great Britain. A world congress was re-enacted for a ZDF documentary film, 'The Delegation', which was viewed by millions.

UFO Conventions and Research Material

The 8th International UFO Convent in Wiesbaden was attended by Dr. Daniel Fry, who brought extraterrestrial material analyzed at the University of Mainz. Television broadcasts featured Dr. Fry, K.L. Veit, and Mrs. Anny Veit. Karl Veit gave lectures and slide shows on UFOs in various German cities, noting significant interest from young people. Objective TV interviews with Karl Veit were also transmitted.

Sighting Scene Reports

Crewe Sighting: MAPIT member Angela Carthy received a dismissive letter from Crewe Police regarding claims of UFO sightings.

Belgium Sighting: Rudy de Groote reported three UFO pictures taken over Chatelineau on February 1st.

Stockport Sighting (15th February 1977): Stephen Bellis, aged 11, reported seeing a red glowing object that moved at incredible speed, swerving 180 degrees and disappearing. The weather was hazy. Manchester Airport confirmed a Boeing 707 departed at 1809 hours, but the witness's description of speed and maneuvers made this explanation questionable.

Stockport Sighting (19th February 1977): Mrs. Ann Howe, a housewife knowledgeable about aircraft, reported seeing a blinding white rotating light that flew past her window and disappeared. She described it as moving at terrific speed. While a Boeing 727 departure was noted, the witness's description of the object's behavior and altitude suggests it was not a conventional aircraft.

Mrs. Howe's 1974 Sighting: Mrs. Howe mentioned seeing an off-diamond shape in 1974, and possibly saw its movement again, though too high to discern the shape.

UFO Conference Proposals

Following an article on a UFO Super Conference, one reply was received suggesting:

a. A joint UFO magazine by all groups.
b. A joint research plan for all groups.
c. A new public relations program for all UFO groups.
d. The end product to be published in book form.

The author, D.G. Frost, is seeking further input and aims to organize the conference soon.

Contactee Cases by R. Markwick

This section discusses 'contactees' – individuals claiming to have been in contact with space-beings or aboard UFOs. The author notes that while such claims were once disbelieved, there is now a low percentage of acceptance. The article questions how many UFO witnesses might be experiencing similar phenomena. It touches upon the idea of 'Malign spaceships' and 'Martian vessels' and the psychological aspects of contactees, suggesting that fears or a desire to influence policy might be underlying factors. The author also references biblical figures like Moses and Ezekiel as examples of individuals who received messages and carried out duties, comparing them to modern contactees.

Hypnosis and UFO Investigations

The article explores the use of hypnosis in investigating UFO claims. It warns about the potential for phantasms and 'cooked up' stories when dealing with a single contactee under hypnosis. The author suggests that hypnosis can be a valuable tool for uncovering repressed memories and psychological causes of complaints, but cautions against inexperienced operators due to the risk of emotional and physical harm.

'Am I Mistaken or Have I Been Here Before?'

This section briefly discusses hypnosis and past-life regression, warning that claims of previous lives might not be what they seem. It touches upon the concept of souls being exchanged and the implications for reincarnation.

'Contactees' Psychological Aspects

This part reiterates the importance of medical and psychological reports for contactees. It suggests that fears or a desire to influence policies might be motivations for claiming UFO encounters. The author notes a decrease in such messages and compares modern contactees to biblical figures, suggesting that space-beings might be acting on their own behalf rather than for humanity's benefit.

The Nature of Space-Beings and Communication

The author speculates that advanced space-beings might be elusive and that communication might be difficult due to vast space distances and potential energy fields. The article suggests that 'contactees' who claim encounters with UFOs similar to the US Apollo Moon Rocket are less believable than those who speak of more technical aspects. It also posits that space-beings are more interested in their own benefit than ours.

Book Review: Project Blue Book - A Major Document

Brad Steiger's book is reviewed, covering the U.S. Airforce's perspective on UFOs. The review summarizes chapters detailing:

• The Kenneth Arnold sighting near Mt. Rainier.
• The case of Captain Thomas Mantell.
• The dog-fight involving Gorman.
• The Lubbock Lights mystery.
• The Socorro Landing and insignia.
• The 'buzzing' of the White House.

Chapters seven through thirteen cover the workings of Blue Book and UFO research. The reviewer highly recommends the book, noting its excellent value and official photos.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the need for quality reporting and critical analysis of UFO phenomena, distinguishing between sensationalism and genuine investigation. There's a strong focus on UFO research organizations, particularly in Europe, and a desire to foster collaboration among groups. The use of hypnosis as a research tool is explored, with both its potential benefits and risks highlighted. The publication appears to be a platform for sharing sighting reports, research findings, and opinions within the UFO community, encouraging reader participation and critical thinking.