Information for a Beginner of Paranormal Research

Ghost hunting isn't just sneaking into haunted houses anymore.

Paranormal research is gaining notoriety and legitimacy with science and media attention. Brushes with the unexplained used to be based on the trustworthiness of the person telling the tale. Modern technology, however, is able to record things the human ears and eyes can't. Many enthusiasts say it provides proof that hauntings are very real.

Getting Started

There are many high-tech pieces of equipment available for paranormal research. For beginners or the "average Joe" who don't wish to spend a fortune just yet, however, there are plenty of inexpensive and easy items to help you get started.

The first items you will need are a log book and pencil. The high-tech equipment may be useless without these basic tools.

Basic Researching Equipment

EMF, or electromagnetic field, detectors are used by paranormal researchers who believe that spirits have detectable EMFs. EMFs also pick up power sources such as electrical boxes, televisions and anything that is plugged in.

Camcorders and cameras are also essential. Digital cameras allow you to zoom in on images and change the quality for better examination.

A digital voice recorder can record frequencies not heard by human ears. A voice-activated recorder will only begin recording when a human voice is present.

Knowing Where To Go

By doing a simple online search, you can find places believed to be "haunted" to explore. Places of historical significance are often good places to start, such as famous prisons like Eastern State Penitentiary or Alcatraz in San Francisco Bay.

Places of great emotional energy are also stomping grounds for paranormal researchers, such as Civil War battlefields. The battlefields, cemeteries and accompanying properties are usually free and open to the public. A paranormal research museum even opened in Gettysburg in March 2010.

Many people who believe their house is haunted are willing to invite paranormal investigators into the home, as well.

Knowing What to Look For

In addition to first-person stories, researchers suggest looking for cold spots, indicating the presence of a spirit, orbs or balls of light that linger or move methodically and don't appear to have any known cause, unexplained noises or disembodied voices and equipment malfunctioning for no known reason.

More Support and Information

Dozens of amateur research groups in the United States look for new members to recruit and train.
There are also "professional" paranormal research groups, such as The Atlantic Paranormal Society, or TAPS, and the Paranormal Research Society, which mentor amateur groups. The groups' websites contain informational articles and links to find more information and help.

References

• The Paranormal Atlantic Society
• Tri-Mar Paranormal Research
• The Paranormal Research Society

Resources

• Crucible Catalog - Paranormal Research Equipment
• WGAL - Paranormal Museum Opens in Downtown Gettysburg