How Psychics Claim to Rediscover History

Remote viewing, a controversial practice from the Cold War era, was once explored by government agencies as a tool to uncover hidden or lost objects. Some declassified projects, such as the CIA's experiments, attempted to use remote viewing to locate legendary artifacts like the Ark of the Covenant, blending intelligence work with psychic phenomena.

While the credibility and effectiveness of remote viewing remain debated, its mysterious allure continues to fascinate both researchers and the public. This approach lies at the intersection of science, history, and the unexplained, raising questions about how far human perception can reach.

Understanding Remote Viewing

Remote viewing is a practice that involves attempting to gather information about hidden or distant targets through non-physical means. Researchers have explored its origins, compared it to other psychic phenomena like clairvoyance, and examined the possible role of consciousness in the process.

Origins and Development

Remote viewing emerged as a research topic in the 1970s, primarily through projects funded by the United States government. The Stanford Research Institute (SRI) became known for its investigations, with physicists such as Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff conducting studies under contract for agencies like the CIA and Defense Intelligence Agency.

This research was part of a broader interest in parapsychology, which studies phenomena such as extrasensory perception (ESP) and psi. Early experiments often involved standardized protocols intended to measure the accuracy of information received by remote viewers about locations, people, or objects.

By the 1980s and 1990s, the concept of remote viewing had gained traction both within government circles and among civilian practitioners. Today, it continues to be referenced in both popular media and niche scientific investigations.

Remote Viewing vs. Clairvoyance

Although remote viewing and clairvoyance share similarities, researchers typically distinguish between the two. Remote viewing is defined as a structured process that follows specific protocols and can be performed under controlled conditions, often with blind targets and independent judges.

Clairvoyance, by contrast, refers more generally to psychic phenomena in which a person claims to perceive events or information beyond the normal senses, without a structured method. Remote viewing incorporates elements of ESP and makes use of feedback and analysis, attempting to reduce subjective interpretation.

The following table summarizes key differences:

Aspect Remote Viewing Clairvoyance Structure Protocol-driven Unstructured Feedback Usually includes feedback Rarely includes feedback Scientific Use Used in experiments Anecdotal reports

Role of Consciousness in Remote Viewing

Consciousness plays a central role in theories about remote viewing. Some researchers in psi and parapsychology suggest that aspects of the mind, potentially subconscious or nonlocal, are able to access distant or hidden information.

Practitioners of remote viewing often employ relaxation, meditation, or altered states of awareness to facilitate the process. The mechanisms by which consciousness might access remote targets remain debated and are not yet explained by conventional neuroscience.

Despite skepticism in the broader scientific community, experiments sometimes report statistical anomalies in remote viewing results, although replication remains a major challenge. Consciousness-related factors such as intention, mental focus, and emotional state are commonly cited as influential variables in remote viewing performance.

Remote Viewing in Government and Intelligence

Government agencies have explored the potential of remote viewing for intelligence purposes. Interest peaked during the Cold War, leading to formal programs, declassified documents, and the involvement of leading research institutes.

CIA Involvement and Declassified Documents

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) began funding research into remote viewing in the early 1970s, contracting the Stanford Research Institute in Menlo Park, California. The CIA sought to determine if remote viewing could yield actionable intelligence for national security.

Declassified CIA documents reveal that researchers and "psychic spies" participated in controlled sessions to attempt to describe locations, objects, and sometimes lost artifacts. These files sometimes include sketches and notes taken during these sessions, reflecting both the methods and the limitations observed.

CIA records indicate that while the program produced some notable claims, the reliability and consistency of remote viewing were often under question. Some documents discuss sessions “locating” historical artifacts, such as the Ark of the Covenant, but rarely provide follow-up evidence or verification.

Project Sun Streak and Star Gate

Project Sun Streak and Project Star Gate were the primary U.S. government programs dedicated to remote viewing. Operated first by Army Intelligence and then by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), these initiatives continued from the late 1970s until 1995.

Participants, often called remote viewers, attempted to describe targets ranging from military sites to missing people and cultural artifacts. The projects involved structured protocols and training to standardize the process and minimize bias.

Project Timeline Table:

Project Agency Duration Sun Streak Army Intelligence 1985–1990 Star Gate DIA 1991–1995

While results were mixed, the programs were ultimately terminated after external reviews concluded the evidence was insufficient to justify continued funding.

Role of Psychic Spies During the Cold War

During the Cold War, U.S. intelligence agencies believed the Soviet Union was experimenting with psychic phenomena for espionage. In response, the CIA and the Department of Defense began their own psychic spying efforts, fearful of falling behind in any aspect of intelligence technology.

Psychic spies were used to gather information on foreign installations and events, often under tight security conditions. Reports from this era sometimes referenced attempts to locate secret facilities, submarines, or Soviet activities using remote viewers.

The competitive atmosphere of the Cold War led to the allocation of funding and personnel for these programs, but by the 1990s, the lack of solid results diminished official confidence. Despite the skepticism, remote viewing in intelligence work remains a subject of interest among researchers and historians.

Methods and Practices of Remote Viewers

Remote viewers use structured approaches to attempt to access information about distant or hidden objects. Their methods often involve discipline, mental focus, and specific protocols designed to reduce bias or contamination of the process.

Techniques and Protocols

Remote viewers typically follow a defined protocol. The most well-known is the “double-blind” protocol, where neither the viewer nor the monitor knows the target. This helps prevent subconscious cueing and supports the credibility of the process. Controlled environments are used to minimize distractions and prevent sensory leakage.

Key steps include:

Target assignment: A code or number is given instead of direct information about the object or location.
Session structure: Sessions are timed, and viewers record their first impressions, sketches, or descriptions.
Feedback: The accuracy of the results is later compared against real data when possible.

Some groups use a standard form or worksheet to document each session. Observers note details like shapes, colors, and impressions without interpretation during the data-gathering phase.

Anomalous Cognition and Telepathy

Anomalous cognition is a term often used by researchers to describe results that cannot be explained by known sensory channels. Remote viewers who report successful information retrieval frequently attribute their results to this phenomenon.

Telepathy is sometimes discussed as a possible mechanism. In this context, some psychics believe they can access hidden information through mental connection, either with another person or the environment. However, scientific experiments distinguish between direct mental transfer (telepathy) and “seeing” at a distance (anomalous cognition).

Statistical analysis and repeat trials are part of research protocols to determine if results exceed what could be expected by chance. Both concepts—anomalous cognition and telepathy—remain controversial in the scientific community, with limited acceptance outside of certain research circles.

Applications in Locating Lost Artifacts

Remote viewing has been used as a method for searching for valuable historical objects and attempting to resolve cases involving missing persons. This approach has yielded mixed results but remains a point of interest for researchers and intelligence agencies.

Remote Viewing and Archaeology

Remote viewing gained particular attention in the field of archaeology in the late 20th century, often during classified U.S. government experiments. The technique involved individuals known as "remote viewers" attempting to describe hidden locations or objects, such as ancient ruins or lost relics, without direct physical access.

Some remote viewing sessions reportedly produced maps, sketches, or written descriptions. These materials were sometimes compared with known archaeological data to check for accuracy. While anecdotal successes are mentioned, such as sketches resembling site layouts, results often varied and lacked rigorous scientific verification.

Advocates of remote viewing in archaeology suggest it could serve as a supplementary tool in narrowing search areas when conventional methods have stalled. Critics argue that positive results may result from educated guessing or coincidence, rather than genuine extrasensory perception. Nonetheless, the practice inserted itself into discussions about alternative methods for historical knowledge discovery.

High-Profile Historical Searches

Certain lost artifacts, including the Ark of the Covenant, were specifically targeted in remote viewing projects. Declassified CIA documents confirm that assets used remote viewing under programs like Project Sun Streak to locate legendary treasures. Efforts typically included supplying viewers with minimal information, then collecting details or sketches based on their impressions.

These attempts sometimes generated media attention when sketches or notes appeared to align with known descriptions of the targets. However, no major artifact such as the Ark of the Covenant has been definitively recovered through these efforts.

In some instances, remote viewing was applied to missing persons cases, although outcomes remain largely unverified or confidential. The lack of consistent, reproducible success means mainstream archaeology and law enforcement rarely consider remote viewing as a primary investigative tool. Nonetheless, its role in high-profile searches highlights ongoing curiosity about unconventional methods in locating missing historical artifacts.

The Case of the Ark of the Covenant

The Ark of the Covenant stands at the crossroads of faith, legend, and mystery. It has attracted attention from religious scholars, archaeologists, and intelligence agencies alike, including in unconventional pursuits such as remote viewing.

Biblical Significance and Legends

The Ark of the Covenant is described in the Hebrew Bible as a sacred gold-covered wooden chest. It housed the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

Traditionally, the Ark represented the covenant between God and Israel. According to biblical accounts, the Ark was carried during the Israelites' exodus through the desert and played a central role during their conquest of Canaan.

Legends claim the Ark disappeared after the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. Over centuries, its fate became a subject of speculation across cultures, influencing literature and religious thought.

Remote Viewing Attempts on the Ark

In the 20th century, the CIA and other organizations explored "remote viewing"—a practice involving attempts to perceive distant or hidden objects using psychic methods. Among their targets was the Ark of the Covenant.

Declassified CIA files reveal experiments from projects like Sun Streak where psychics and remote viewers tried to locate the biblical artifact. Reports described the Ark as hidden, possibly underground or in a cave, though there was no physical proof from these efforts.

Scientific consensus generally dismisses remote viewing as lacking empirical support. Despite this, the inclusion of the Ark in such programs illustrates its enduring intrigue and the lengths to which researchers will go.

Connection to Moses and the Ten Commandments

Moses, a foundational figure in Judaism, is closely linked to the Ark through the event of receiving the Ten Commandments. These tablets, according to biblical tradition, were directly placed into the Ark by Moses himself.

The Ark’s purpose extended beyond simply housing the tablets; it also symbolized divine law and the presence of God among the people of Israel. For centuries, the Ark and the story of Moses have been central to Jewish, Christian, and Islamic tradition.

Parts of the narrative are reinforced through ritual practices and temple worship, highlighting the centrality of the Ark in ancient religious identity.

The Holy of Holies and the Seraphim

Within the Jerusalem Temple, the Ark was placed in the innermost chamber, known as the Holy of Holies. Only the high priest could enter this sacred space, and only once a year on Yom Kippur.

The Ark's lid, called the mercy seat, was adorned with two golden figures described as seraphim (or cherubim). These angelic beings, with outstretched wings, faced each other and symbolized the divine presence.

Descriptions emphasize that the area above the Ark, between the seraphim, was regarded as the meeting point between God and humanity. The imagery and ritual connected to the Ark, the Holy of Holies, and the seraphim continue to influence religious art and theology.

Notable Personalities in Remote Viewing

Remote viewing has attracted a diverse group of individuals, including former military personnel, professional psychics, and researchers. Several figures stand out for their involvement in remote viewing of lost artifacts and intelligence work.

Joe McMoneagle: The Psychic Spy

Joe McMoneagle is among the best-known remote viewers from the U.S. Army’s Project Stargate. He participated in hundreds of documented sessions and often focused on targets of military and archaeological interest. His work covered attempts to gather information on locations and objects from a distance, sometimes relating to lost artifacts.

McMoneagle himself was outspoken about the limitations of remote viewing. He often noted the challenges in verifying results, particularly with historical or unverifiable targets. Despite these obstacles, he was awarded the Legion of Merit for his contributions, underscoring his impact within intelligence circles.

His sessions reportedly included efforts to locate ancient artifacts and explore significant archaeological mysteries. However, he criticized the use of remote viewing for targets impossible to confirm, emphasizing the importance of measurable outcomes and verification.

Prominent Remote Viewers and Psychics

Beyond McMoneagle, other remote viewers and professional psychics have contributed to projects involving lost objects and historical mysteries. Some, like Edward Riordan, trained in remote viewing techniques using early instructional materials and have worked as practitioners for decades. Their focus often expands beyond military targets and into archaeology or missing items.

A number of remote viewers collaborate in teams, engaging in sessions designed to validate each other's impressions. These practitioners often participate in research or private investigations. Techniques can vary but usually include controlled settings, documented protocols, and blind tasks to reduce bias.

While skeptics question the consistency of results, the continued efforts of these individuals shape both public perception and ongoing research into the potential of remote viewing for uncovering information about lost artifacts.

Debate: Scientific Perspectives and Criticisms

Remote viewing, when applied to the search for lost artifacts, has sparked significant discussion within the scientific community. Key debates center on questions of methodology, evidence quality, and the boundaries between science and pseudoscience.

Skepticism and Pseudoscience Claims

Skeptics argue that remote viewing falls into the category of pseudoscience due to a lack of consistent, repeatable evidence. Methodological flaws—such as poorly controlled environments or ambiguous target descriptions—are frequent points of criticism.

Prominent scientists highlight the absence of a plausible physical explanation for how remote viewing might work. Claims are often assessed alongside other paranormal subjects that similarly lack mainstream scientific acceptance.

The reliance on anecdotal success stories, rather than statistically significant data from blinded trials, is a particular concern. False positives, subjective interpretations, and confirmation biases complicate matters further, leading critics to question the reliability and validity of results.

Reception by the Scientific Community

The broader scientific community has responded with cautious skepticism. Institutions such as the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) and later SAIC have attempted controlled studies, but mainstream journals remain reluctant to accept findings without rigorous replication.

Meta-analyses of published remote viewing experiments indicate some statistically significant results, but effect sizes often fall within the margin of error. Key review papers emphasize the importance of robust experimental design and independent replication.

Professional organizations generally do not endorse remote viewing as a legitimate scientific practice. The topic is still regarded as controversial and is rarely included in academic conferences outside parapsychology or fringe research circles.

Remote Viewing in Popular Culture

Remote viewing has made appearances in entertainment media, often merging with stories about lost artifacts and historical mysteries. This has influenced how audiences perceive the practice, especially in relation to high-profile adventure films.

Indiana Jones and Popular Media

The Indiana Jones franchise frequently explores themes involving the search for ancient relics, mystical artifacts, and lost civilizations. Although the films center on archaeology and adventure, the idea of finding important objects in unconventional ways resonates with the remote viewing narrative.

Indiana Jones, as a character, does not use remote viewing, but the allure of psychic phenomena fits into the broader fascination with extraordinary means of discovery. Some TV shows and books, inspired by the Indiana Jones format, even reference alleged psychic techniques.

Popular media occasionally features replicas of famous artifacts, inspired by fictional portrayals. These replicas often appear in museums or private collections, further blurring the line between myth, reality, and entertainment. Stories of remote viewing sometimes draw on the same sense of mystery and possibility present in adventure films.

Comparison to Raiders of the Lost Ark

Raiders of the Lost Ark centers on the search for the biblical Ark of the Covenant. The film showcases suspenseful sequences and imaginative problem-solving but does not feature characters who use remote viewing or psychic abilities.

However, both remote viewing and Raiders of the Lost Ark involve the idea of accessing knowledge or locations otherwise hidden to most. The film's dramatic narratives about ancient artifacts reflect real-world aspirations to recover lost treasures, whether through traditional or extraordinary means.

Government experiments, such as those mentioned in declassified CIA documents, show a real-world interest in remote viewing that has occasionally overlapped with searches for legendary relics, including the Ark. In contrast, the film relies on action and science fiction rather than claims of psychic discovery. Audiences sometimes conflate the fictional techniques in cinema with actual experimental methods.

Beyond Earth: Remote Viewing Unexplained Phenomena

Many remote viewing accounts extend beyond lost artifacts and venture into domains such as planetary exploration and phenomena that cannot be fully explained by current science. Some reports also highlight a connection between psychic practices and concepts like spirituality and precognition.

Remote Viewing Mars and Other Mysteries

Researchers and former intelligence operatives have used remote viewing protocols to attempt to perceive details about Mars, especially its ancient history. Some of the most well-known remote viewing sessions appeared in declassified CIA experiments, where remote viewers described landscapes, structures, and entities they claimed to perceive on Mars.

Reports from these sessions, according to available sketches and notes, often included details such as unusual landforms and hypothetical beings. While there is no scientific consensus about the validity of these claims, these descriptions have generated discussion about the limits of human perception and the tools used to explore distant locations.

A summary table can illustrate how different missions or studies approached this:

Target Remote Viewing Details Outcome/Feedback Mars (ancient) Cities, tall beings, cataclysms No objective evidence UFO phenomena Craft, unknown technology Unverified reports

Such attempts are considered controversial, as remote viewing does not rely on physical measurements or conventional sensors.

The Role of Spirituality and Precognition

For many practicing remote viewers, the experience is closely linked to concepts of spirituality and heightened intuition. Anecdotal reports often describe feelings of connectedness, altered states of consciousness, or interactions with entities that are not physically present.

Precognition—perceiving events before they occur—is another recurring theme in discussions of remote viewing. Participants have described gaining information about future events or outcomes, although systematic evidence remains inconclusive.

Some protocols include meditative or mindfulness practices, intended to reduce distractions and foster a receptive mental state. These techniques are thought to enhance the quality of information retrieved, though the mechanism remains largely unexplained.

Spirituality, for some, serves as both a framework for interpreting remote viewing experiences and as a motivator for exploring the unknown. This interplay shapes how practitioners understand their insights and the meaning they assign to their perceptions.

The Remote Viewing of Lost Artifacts