We conclude with a brief overview of various reputed forms of so-called plasma phenomena, cited by some as a possible explanation for otherwise inexplicable “UAP” reports. There is presently considerable uncertainty surrounding this issue – even as to whether such plasmas exist in actuality! Whatever its claimed origin, a plasma is generally believed to consist of fluoresced, energised air somehow capable of assuming a spherical, dome or discoid form.
Seemingly artificial surface features could result from the same perceptional effects esponsible for creating the illusory shapes associated with some conventional identified flying objects (such as the COSMOS 1068 satellite re-entry discussed previously). It is further claimed that such phenomena may also emit radio waves, microwaves, infrared or ultra violet radiation; resulting in various secondary effects ranging from vehicle interference, radio static through to diverse physiological effects on people.

There is presently no consensus how such phenomena could be generated, with various man-made, natural and geophysical mechanisms being proposed to date. One theory postulates earthfaults can generate luminous phenomena (termed earthlights) and/or consciousness-altering electromagnetic emissions, instigated by relatively low levels of seismic stress. Another theory proposes man-made electromagnetic emissions from electrical pylons, electrical sub-stations, radio and microwave transmitters are possibly responsible – especially within areas prone to their concentration termed hotspots. Some further theory proposes the existence of a “UAP” related to tornadoes termed a plasma vortex.

Again, it must be stressed that the existence of such phenomena are only hypothetical and have yet to be convincingly demonstrated, and also that the validity of all these various plasma theories have been severely criticised. The existence of ball lightning, however, infers that this possibility is also a real one. While the debate over the existence of “plasmas” is ongoing and presently unresolved, it is nonetheless worth considering the possibility of such an event in instances where other conventional explanations appear inadequate. Obviously, it is difficult to summarise such complex ideas in only a page or so – nonetheless, the “tell-tell signs” section below attempts to encapsulate the more notable reputed attributes of these various hypothetical phenomena. Only future work can eventually invalidate, refine or vindicate the existence of plasmas – a task that may well be facilitated by the investigations of the reader!

Resources:
Perspectives on Plasmas:
http://www.plasmas.org/basics.htm
MOD Project Condign (volume 2,working paper 19, part P)
http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/D332CDB4-1E66-4672-A78D-7FBC479864C5/0/uap_vol2_ptb_pgs61to75.pdf