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Pictures of an Unknown Aura

Bioeffects Seen

Aaronson · 1974

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Early Kirlian photography research revealed that living organisms generate detectable electromagnetic fields, establishing biological EMF sensitivity.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

This 1974 research by Aaronson explored Kirlian photography, a technique that captures electrical discharge patterns around living organisms, particularly focusing on plant specimens. The study examined what appears to be bioelectrical energy fields or 'auras' that become visible through this specialized photographic method. This work contributed to early investigations into whether living organisms generate detectable electromagnetic fields that could be photographed and analyzed.

Why This Matters

While Kirlian photography research from the 1970s might seem disconnected from modern EMF health concerns, it actually represents an important early recognition that living organisms interact with electromagnetic fields in complex ways. The science demonstrates that our bodies and other living systems are fundamentally bioelectrical - we generate our own electromagnetic fields through cellular processes, nerve conduction, and heart rhythms. What this means for you is that if organisms naturally produce and respond to electromagnetic fields, they're also potentially susceptible to external EMF interference. The reality is that this foundational work helped establish that biological systems aren't electromagnetically inert - they're dynamic, field-generating entities that can be influenced by the EMF environment around them.

Exposure Information

Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.

Cite This Study
Aaronson (1974). Pictures of an Unknown Aura.
Show BibTeX
@article{pictures_of_an_unknown_aura_g5952,
  author = {Aaronson},
  title = {Pictures of an Unknown Aura},
  year = {1974},
  
  
}

Quick Questions About This Study

Kirlian photography captures electrical discharge patterns around objects placed on photographic plates with high-voltage, low-current electricity applied. The resulting images show corona-like glows that appear to emanate from living specimens, particularly plants and human fingertips.
Kirlian photography demonstrates that plants conduct electricity and create visible discharge patterns, but whether these represent 'auras' remains scientifically debated. The images likely show moisture, electrical conductivity, and surface conditions rather than mystical energy fields.
The phantom leaf effect claimed to show the electromagnetic outline of a removed portion of a leaf in Kirlian photographs. While controversial, this phenomenon suggested that biological electromagnetic fields might persist even after physical tissue removal.
Early Kirlian work established that living organisms generate and interact with electromagnetic fields, providing foundational evidence for biological EMF sensitivity that modern research continues to explore with more sophisticated measurement techniques.
Some Kirlian researchers claimed the technique could reveal changes in health, stress, or emotional states through altered discharge patterns. However, controlled scientific studies have not consistently validated these diagnostic applications.