The mystery Dome OVER the Rock: 'UFO' seen above Jerusalem holy site

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 7:06 PM on 20th April 2011

Several videos showing a glowing light above the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem have sparked claims of a UFO above the city.

Millions of people have viewed the clips, which show a bright circular object hovering above the 2,500-year-old shrine.

The 'UFO' suddenly appears in the dark sky, plunging down to the buildings in front of stunned tourists. One can be heard crying out: 'Is that a UFO, it's amazing'.

Mystery: The UFO seen hovering above the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem was caught on camera by a number of witnesses

Another woman exclaims: 'We've seen them in Mississippi like this but never here.' 

The object then speeds straight back up into the sky and disappears in a flash, prompting more gasps.

The YouTube video, dated January 28, has fuelled the UFO lobby who believe extra-terrestrials exist and sparked an online debate about the prospect of life beyond Earth.  

One viewer wrote: 'Aliens are real... What's to say there is no other form of life in the over millions of planets in the sat galaxies.' 

But many have greeted the clip with cynicism, insisting it is just a reflection or trick of the light. One jokes caustically: 'It's an Angel no ufo'.

Spotted: The UFO first appeared as a light in the sky over Jerusalem

Descent: The ball of light can be seen moving slowly down through the night sky

Hovering: It finally settles above the Dome of the Rock

Former Ministry of Defense UFO investigator Nick Pope told Fox News: 'If these [videos] are real, they are some of the most incredible videos ever shot.

'If they are not, then this is a very well-planned and coordinated hoax designed to eliminate elements of doubt.

'The way it shoots up into the sky suggests it is unmanned, because no living thing could survive those kinds of G-forces.

'We know the Israeli army has some very high-tech drones at its disposal. If this is one, it is one of the most advanced pieces of technology created by man.'

The golden Dome of the Rock, seen from the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem

The Dome of the Rock is the most famous Islamic site in Jerusalem and the crowning glory of Temple Mount. It can be seen from all over the city. 

The Muslim shrine is built from sacred stone. The foundation stone is laid on what is believed to be the spot where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during his Night Journey. 

It also has the oldest surviving mihrab - the niche giving the direction of Mecca - in the world.

The site is also where the ancient Temple of Solomon used to stand until it was destroyed by the Romans in 70BC.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-1378901/The-Dome-flying-saucer-Rock-Mystery-UFO-seen-Jerusalem-holy-site.html#ixzz1KGhvZokl