In my previous BLOG, I suggested that the locations we investigate provide a significant number of phenomena that people call 'Orbs'; yet what are these small 'blobs' of white matter that we see floating around?
My observations to-date suggest Orbs:
Move generally in straight lines and do not go round in circles.
Do not appear to fly to and rest on objects.
Manifest, seemingly float-by and vanish.
Occasionally, are attracted to the camera.
Catch the attention of energetically sensitive people.
Are seen usually only with night-vision equipment, beyond normal vision.
Are more prevalent the more people that are gathered?
Are white in colour with a small trailing tail.
Can be mistaken for dust and insects, but these appear to move differently.
Unexplained Orb Behaviour
In the recent investigation at The Attic, Totton, I witnessed an Orb manifest, fly straight to the camera, go through the lens and I felt an extremely strange feeling. I recognised this feeling as I have experienced it previously while on the SS Steamhall investigation. It felt that an entity had passed through me.
During the investigation at The Attic, additionally, I witnessed an Orb fly away from an EMF meter which had just been activated, typically, I was not recording at the time so am unable to present any evidence.
Understanding Paranormal Orbs
In the field of paranormal research, orbs are frequently documented phenomena, often captured in photographs and videos at sites reputed to be haunted. These spherical anomalies appear as balls of light, varying in size, colour, intensity and transparency. The debate surrounding orbs is highly polarised within the paranormal community, with interpretations ranging from spiritual manifestations to simple photographic artefacts. As I have stated, in this article I will seek to explore the arguments for and against the paranormal interpretation of orbs, delve into their characteristics, discuss notable occurrences, and propose a null hypothesis regarding their nature for future investigations.
Typically manifesting as translucent or luminous spheres in photographs and videos, Orbs can be white, but also said to appear in shades of blue, green, red, or other colours. The colour variations have been subjectively linked to different types of spirits or energies by some paranormal enthusiasts; for instance, blue orbs are often associated with calming presences or spiritual guidance, while red orbs might be interpreted as indicators of a malevolent presence. This is worthy of note for future investigations, in order to provide an indication of an investigator's internal feelings of energy and the general atmosphere at the time of the manifestation/sighting.
Arguments Supporting Paranormal Origins
Advocates for the paranormal origin of orbs argue that their appearance in photos coincides with other unexplained phenomena, such as cold spots, electromagnetic field (EMF) spikes, and unaccounted-for sounds or scents. It is suggested that orbs represent the energy patterns of spirits or entities from beyond the physical plane. Proponents often cite the intelligent movement of orbs and their tendency to appear during significant moments or in response to prompts during investigations as evidence of their paranormal nature.
Some famous instances that support this view include the Brown Lady of Raynham Hall, captured in a 1936 photograph, where an orb-like figure is visible. This sighting is often touted as one of the most significant proofs of ghostly apparitions in paranormal research. Unfortunately, with the advent of an increasing demand for content and social media posts, creators are now more than ever manipulating images, and therefore another layer of subjectivity is added.
Sceptical Perspectives and Alternative Explanations
Sceptics of the paranormal explanation for orbs point to several non-supernatural causes, primarily photographic artefacts caused by the way light interacts with cameras. The most common explanation is that orbs result from the reflection of light on dust particles, water droplets, or insects within the range of a camera's flash. Lens flare and reflections from solid objects can also produce orb-like images.
Digital photography, with its sensitivity to low light and tendency to highlight even minute reflections, has coincided with an increase in orb sightings, which sceptics argue undermines their paranormal significance. Experiments where conditions such as dust or moisture are controlled often result in photographs with orb-like phenomena, supporting the argument that most orbs are explainable by natural factors.
Explaining Orb Colours and Theories
The various colours of orbs are often attributed to different sources of light or particle types. For example, dust particles generally produce bright white orbs due to their reflective qualities, while pollen might result in slightly coloured orbs due to its inherent pigmentation. Sceptics argue that the colour and brightness of an orb can be influenced by factors such as the camera’s settings, the distance of the particle from the lens, and the source of light being reflected.
Another Notable Occurrence and Investigation
Aside from the Brown Lady, other notable orb sightings include the orbs photographed at the Stanley Hotel in Colorado, which famously inspired Stephen King's "The Shining." The hotel has been the subject of numerous paranormal investigations, where orbs have been recorded in areas with reported ghost sightings.
Null Hypothesis
The null hypothesis in the debate over orbs is that they are not paranormal in origin but are instead mundane photographic artefacts or natural phenomena. This hypothesis is based on the premise that all observed effects of orbs can be accounted for by known physical processes such as light reflection, camera sensors' limitations, and environmental factors like dust and moisture. This Hypothesis serves as a foundation for a more scientific inquiry into these occurrences. It demands that explanations must first rule out all possible natural explanations before claiming a paranormal origin. This approach does not diminish the cultural and subjective significance of orbs to many in the paranormal community but encourages me to conduct a greater rigorous methodological perspective to ensure claims are based on solid evidence.
Closing Position
Ultimately, the study of orbs straddles the realms of technology, environmental science, and the complexities of human perception and belief. Whether one leans towards a paranormal interpretation or a sceptical viewpoint, the ongoing fascination with orbs propels me to further investigate. Advances in both technological imaging and a deeper understanding of the physical factors will contribute to these captivating phenomena.
This iterative process of hypothesis and investigation is essential, drawing me ever closer to deciphering the true nature behind the enigmatic presence of orbs in paranormal research.
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