Infrasound likely a key factor in alleged hauntings
A new study suggests that infrasound, low-frequency sound below 20 Hz, may be responsible for sensations commonly attributed to hauntings in supposedly haunted locations. These sounds can trigger physiological responses such as increased cortisol levels and feelings of unease, which people may misinterpret as paranormal activity. Environmental sources like wind turbines, vibrating pipes, or mechanical systems can generate infrasound, offering a scientific explanation for ghostly experiences.
- ▪Infrasound below 20 Hz can increase cortisol levels and irritability, contributing to feelings of a ghostly presence.
- ▪Previous studies found that environmental factors like magnetic fields, humidity, and lighting correlate with reported paranormal sensations.
- ▪Vic Tandy linked 18.9 Hz infrasound from mechanical sources to ghostly experiences, which ceased when the source was turned off.
- ▪A recent study used custom infrasound speakers in a haunted house to test fear responses in the absence of traditional scare tactics.
- ▪People may misattribute physiological arousal caused by infrasound to paranormal causes, especially in old or reputedly haunted buildings.
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| Original publisher | Ars Technica |
| Canonical URL | https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/04/that-spooky-sensation-likely-due-to-rumbling-pipes-not-spirits/ |
| Publication time | Sat, 16 May 2026 18:58:56 +0000 |
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they ain’t afraid of no ghosts Study: Infrasound likely a key factor in alleged hauntings Low-frequency infrasound (below 20 Hz) can raise cortisol levels in saliva and increase irritability. Jennifer Ouellette – Apr 27, 2026 2:00 pm | 149 Ireland's Kinnitty Castle is reportedly the home of many ghosts, including the Phantom Monk of Kinnitty Credit: Public domain Ireland's Kinnitty Castle is reportedly the home of many ghosts, including the Phantom Monk of Kinnitty Credit: Public domain Text settings Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only Learn more Minimize to nav The next time you walk into a purportedly “haunted” house and sense a ghostly presence, consider that those feelings might be due to vibrating pipes, mechanical or…
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