Russell Targ
Russell Targ is an American physicist, author, and parapsychologist, born on April 11, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois. He is best known for his scientific research and pioneering work in the field of remote viewing.
Targ earned his Bachelor of Science degree in physics from Queens College and went on to receive a Master’s degree in physics from Columbia University. He later worked at the Stanford Research Institute (SRI), where he conducted research on remote viewing as part of a classified program funded by various government agencies.
During his ten years of remote viewing research at SRI, between 1972–1982, Targ collaborated with Harold E. Puthoff, Ingo Swann, and others to explore the potential applications of remote viewing for military and intelligence purposes. Their work gained attention and controversy, and Targ became a prominent figure in the exploration of psychic phenomena.
Apart from his contributions to parapsychology, Targ has also been involved in laser research. During his tenure at SRI, Targ co-authored several scientific papers on laser physics and technology. His contributions helped advance the understanding and application of lasers in various fields, including communications, medicine, and scientific research.
Targ has written and co-authored several books about extrasensory perception (ESP). His last book, published in 2023, is Third Eye Spies, quoting the title of the documentary film released in 2019 that explores the history of remote viewing, with a focus on the contributions of Targ and his colleagues at SRI.
Targ’s career has sparked both interest and skepticism, with his research contributing to the ongoing debate about the nature of consciousness and the boundaries of human perception. In this way, Targ has played a significant role in bringing attention to the exploration of psychic phenomena and the mysteries of the mind.
The famous photo of Russell Targ & Hal Puthoff in front of the SRI, 1976
Books
Targ, R., & Puthoff, H. E. (1977). Mind-Reach: Scientists Look at Psychic Abilities (Studies in Consciousness). Delacorte Press.
Targ, R., Puthoff, H. E. & Tart, C. (1979) Mind at Large: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers: Symposium on the Nature of Extrasensory Perception. Praeger.
Targ, R., & Harary, K. (1984). The Mind Race: Understanding and Using Psychic Abilities. Ballantine Books.
Targ, R., & Katra, J. (1998). Miracles of Mind: Exploring Nonlocal Consciousness and Spiritual Healing. New World Library.
Katra, J., & Targ, R. (1999). The Heart of the Mind: How to Experience God Without Belief. New World Library.
Targ, R. (2004). Limitless Mind: A Guide to Remote Viewing and Transformation of Consciousness. New World Library.
Targ, R. & Hurtak, J. J. (2006). The End of Suffering: Fearless Living in Troubled Times. Hampton Roads.
Targ, R. (2008). Do You See What I See?: Memoirs of a Blind Biker: Lasers and Love, ESP and the CIA, and the Meaning of Life. Hampton Roads.
Katra, J., & Targ, R. (2008). The Heart of the Mind: Using Our Mind to Transform Our Consciousness. White Crow Books.
Millay, J., Targ, R. & Radin, D. (2010). Radiant Minds: Scientists Explore the Dimensions of Consciousness. Millay.
Targ, R. (2012). The Reality of ESP: A Physicist’s Proof of Psychic Abilities. Hampton Roads.
Targ, R. (2023). Third Eye Spies: Learn Remote Viewing from the Masters. New Page Books.
Mishlove, J., & Targ, R. (2024). Russell Targ: Ninety Years of Remote Viewing, ESP, and Timeless Awareness. White Crow Books.