1. Listen first
Witnesses should be able to describe their experiences in their own words without being pushed toward a particular explanation.
Our Approach
VESPER investigates because we believe paranormal phenomena are possible. That possibility makes the work worth doing—but it also makes it important not to assume the answer before the investigation begins. Open-minded inquiry and critical thinking are allowed to coexist.
Witnesses should be able to describe their experiences in their own words without being pushed toward a particular explanation.
History provides context, but a documented death or tragedy does not automatically explain contemporary claims.
Normal sound, temperature, airflow, lighting, electrical sources, building movement, and other conditions help us recognize what is truly unusual.
Investigation logs, timestamps, original media, equipment records, and investigator notes help preserve the circumstances surrounding an event.
Buildings, electronics, reflections, airflow, wildlife, plumbing, traffic, and other factors can produce experiences that initially seem mysterious.
Interesting material should survive scrutiny before it is presented publicly as evidence.
Observation vs. Interpretation
Observation: a voice-like sound appears on an audio recording.
Interpretation: the sound is the voice of a deceased person.
VESPER attempts to separate what was observed from what we think it might mean. Interpretations can change as new information becomes available; the underlying observation should remain accurately documented.
Language Matters
Instead of declaring that a recording “captured a ghost,” we describe what was documented, what controls or contamination concerns were present, and what explanations remain plausible.
Typical Workflow
The Human Side
Long drives, research discoveries, equipment problems, late-night discussions, unexpected moments, and learning from one another are all part of the experience. Serious investigation does not have to be impersonal.