The basics
The CE-5 protocol
43.86° N-89.75° WBortle 4Central Wisconsin
CE-5 — a Close Encounter of the Fifth Kind — is contact that begins with us: a calm, deliberate invitation rather than a chance sighting. Below is the protocol exactly as Zach teaches it: nine steps, about an hour, no equipment required.
A fuller teaching is in the works. For now, here is the practice itself — and the first time, it's easiest in a group. Come to a skywatch and we'll walk you through it.
Nine steps
One quiet hour
- 01
Find your spot
Choose a quiet place where you won't be disturbed. Open sky is ideal, but indoors works too — what matters is that you can relax and settle.
- 02
Get comfortable
Sit however you'll stay at ease — a chair, the edge of a bed, or a meditative posture. Whatever works best for you.
- 03
Raise the feeling
Fill your mind with what brings you real joy: people you love, laughter, animals, happy memories. Hold that warmth, without judgment.
- 04
Clear the slate
Picture yourself as a simple silhouette. Ask the universe to forgive your missteps and make you whole, pure, and clean again. Watch any heaviness leave you.
- 05
Shield in light
From your heart, imagine a beautiful white light growing brighter until it fills you. Let it form a glowing, egg-shaped shield around you — calm, bright, and untouchable by anything negative.
- 06
Set your intention
In your inner voice, speak your purpose outward along your beam of light: “I wish to make peaceful, open, and loving contact with any extraterrestrial or interdimensional being who shares that intent.” Keep repeating it, like a quiet refrain.
- 07
Send your location
Picture that light rising from your heart and shooting straight up into the sky like a glowing beam. See the planet from above, find your place on it, then settle gently back into your body.
- 08
Drop into meditation
For three to fifteen minutes, breathe slowly and relax every muscle. Let thoughts come and go without holding them — you are simply the observer. Quietly call out for friendly beings to make contact with you and the group, say what kind of contact you're open to, and give thanks. Listen for their answers and strike up a conversation if you're able to.
- 09
Watch the sky
Open your eyes — you've completed the protocol. Keep that light and that beam in mind, stay calm, and search the sky with patience. Don't fear. Contact can be subtle, and some report it takes a while.
Go at your own pace. There's no wrong way to do this, nothing to prove, and nothing to fear — just an honest, open-hearted hour under the sky.
Honest answers
A few common questions
- Do I need to believe in any of this?
- No. People come curious, hopeful, and openly skeptical — all are welcome. The protocol is a discipline of attention and intention; what you make of the experience is entirely yours.
- Is it safe?
- Yes. The whole practice is built around peace, love, and clear positive intent — we don't engage with fear. Go at your own pace, and stop any time you like.
- What if nothing happens?
- That's common, especially at first, and it isn't a failure. Many people find the meditation alone makes the night worthwhile. Contact, when it comes, is often subtle and rewards patience.
- Do I need any equipment or an app?
- No. There are apps and tools out there, but all you really need is yourself, a warm layer, and an open sky. At a gathering, Zach guides the whole thing aloud — you can just follow along.
Try it with us
Reading it is one thing; doing it together under a dark sky is another. Join a skywatch — newcomers always welcome.