European UFOs

Historian Dr G. Wiechmann joins me to explore how a fleeting newspaper story from 1950 grew into one of Europe’s most bizarre UFO legends—the so-called “Nazi UFO”. In his recent book, Von der deutschen Flugscheibe zum Nazi-UFO (From the German Flying Saucer to the Nazi UFO), he traces the strange journey of this myth: from Cold-War headlines and pop-sci magazines to right-wing esoterica and modern-day model kits. We discuss how this story took flight, why it keeps resurfacing, and what its long afterlife reveals about our appetite for conspiracy lore—even when the physics don’t check out and there's a complete lack of credible evidence. What we cover ✦ How a brief post-war rumour turned into a mass-market legend ✦ The role of media, pulp fiction and military lexicons in spreading the story ✦ Why the myth survived debunking by engineers and historians alike ✦ How it continues to generate revenue through books, toys and memes ✦ What this case says about belief, technology and the business of mystery Note: the interview is in German. Just email me to get a free English transcript of it (europeanufos@gmail.com) Dr. Wiechmann’s book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Von-Deutschen-Flugscheibe-Nazi-ufo-Metamorphosen/dp/350678742X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JCB7KKS6F2DP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.tt1oGW6bQtycJcfcFjolyg.UGLpMd8vumTXFGCiYy2wmSRUTf4LcMD8TqxDsMH0tEc&dib_tag=se&keywords=nazi+ufo%2C+wiechmann&qid=1752244122&sprefix=nazi+ufo%2C+wiechmann%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-1 Get in touch with the show 📢 Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs 📷 Instagram: europeanufos 📘 Facebook: European UFOs 📧 Email: europeanufos@gmail.com ☕ Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In this episode, I speak with an ex crop circle maker who goes by the pseudonym “D.” While many still associate crop circles with extraterrestrials, D argues that humans play a pivotal role in their creation—and that the real mystery begins during the making of these formations. Over the course of several summers in Wiltshire, a region in the southwest of England long associated with ancient monuments and mysterious phenomena, D helped create dozens of crop circles. What he encountered during those nights in the fields defies easy explanation: flashes of light, floating orbs, strange synchronicities, and unsettling energies that lingered long after the work was done. We explore the technical and creative process behind crop circle construction and ask: What draws certain people to this work? Why does Wiltshire seem to act as a hotspot for high strangeness? And could the very act of making crop circles be a form of contact with something beyond ourselves? D’s perspective challenges the tidy divide between hoax and mystery, man-made and paranormal. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this conversation invites you to rethink the nature of the phenomenon. More on D’s work 📝 Substack: https://itcantbepeople.substack.com Get in touch with the show 📢 Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs 📷 Instagram: europeanufos 📘 Facebook: European UFOs 📧 Email: europeanufos@gmail.com ☕ Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos Want a free transcript of this episode? Email europeanufos@gmail.com, and I’ll be happy to send it over!

In this episode, I speak with filmmaker and UFO researcher Bram Roza about his new documentary, The UFO’s of Soesterberg, which explores one of the most remarkable mass military UFO sightings in European history. On February 3rd, 1979, twelve military police officers stationed at Soesterberg Air Base in the Netherlands reported witnessing a gigantic, dark triangular craft hovering silently over the base. The incident, which took place at the height of the Cold War, remains one of the best-documented UFO cases in the Netherlands. We explore the key details of the Soesterberg case, including the official military response, how the event was reported in the media, and the involvement of Dutch and U.S. forces at the base. Bram shares insights from his extensive research, including interviews with former military personnel who saw the craft firsthand, as well as other previously unknown encounters from the region. What really happened that night at Soesterberg? Was this a secret military craft, a case of mistaken identity, or something far more mysterious? Join us as we unravel one of the most compelling UFO cases in European history. More on Bram Roza’s work 📽️ Documentary: The UFO's of Soesterberg (coming soon to streaming platforms), http://www.soesterbergufo.nl/ https://ufomeldpunt.nl/ Get in touch with the show 📢 Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs 📷 Instagram: europeanufos 📘 Facebook: European UFOs 📧 Email: europeanufos@gmail.com ☕ Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos Want a free transcript of this episode? Email europeanufos@gmail.com, and I’ll be happy to send it over!

In this episode, I speak with journalist Rino Di Stefano, who originally covered and later wrote a book about the Zanfretta case, one of Europe’s most astonishing and well-documented UFO abduction cases. Between 1978 and 1980, Pier Fortunato Zanfretta, a security guard in the Genoa region of northern Italy, reported multiple abductions by towering reptilian beings. His terrifying encounters sparked official investigations, drew the attention of the Italian Carabinieri, and left behind physical traces that continue to puzzle researchers to this day. We explore the key events of the case, from Zanfretta’s first abduction in 1978 to his final (official) disappearance in 1980, analyzing eyewitness accounts, forensic evidence, and hypnosis sessions conducted by leading medical professionals. Di Stefano shares his first-hand experiences investigating the case, including his participation in a rescue operation after one of Zanfretta’s vanishings. Was this a genuine case of extraterrestrial contact, a psychological phenomenon, or something else entirely? Join us as we dive deep into the mystery of the Zanfretta abductions and the lasting impact they had on those involved. More on Rino di Stefano’s work Website: https://www.rinodistefano.com/en/ Book on the Zanfretta case: https://www.amazon.com/Zanfretta-Case-Chronicle-Incredible-Story/dp/B0D47W45KG/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.9RdBcCgf05Q9UsBjBH_JVQ.wVp5a0aij7OoQ4gJuWRdwBh8Ns7u-1K1XhAcY27_tsc&qid=1738511195&sr=8-1 Get in touch with the show 📢 Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs 📷 Instagram: europeanufos 📘 Facebook: European UFOs 📧 Email: europeanufos@gmail.com ☕ Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: Buy Me a Coffee Want a free transcript of this episode? Email europeanufos@gmail.com, and I’ll be happy to send it over!

In this episode, I speak with Martin Chlebovský, a veteran ufologist and leading member of Project Záře (Project Glow) in the Czech Republic. We delve into the often-overlooked region of Central Europe in UFO research, exploring Martin's early fascination with UFOs that began in the 1970s. Our discussion traces the evolution of UFO research in the Czech Republic, from its clandestine beginnings under the communist regime to the post-Velvet Revolution era, where newfound freedoms allowed researchers to organize and publish their findings. Martin shares insights into the methodologies employed by Project Glow, which investigated not only UFO sightings but also poltergeist phenomena, spontaneous human combustion, and other unexplained mysteries. We also highlight a small but compelling percentage of cases that defy conventional explanation. Whether you're a seasoned UFO enthusiast or new to the field, this episode is packed with intriguing stories from a region rarely featured in mainstream UFO discourse. Project Záře: http://www.projektzare.cz/ Final report of Project Záře: http://www.projektzare.cz/co-je-projekt-zare/ Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In this episode, I speak with Joachim Dekkers, the founder of UAP Coalition Netherlands. We delve into his journey, starting with how the 2017 New York Times article about U.S. Navy pilots encountering UAP sparked his interest. Joachim shares how this curiosity led him to explore similar cases in Europe and ultimately form a coalition focused on UAP from the perspectives of law enforcement, aviation, and military professionals. Our conversation covers his mission to remove the stigma surrounding UAP experiences and his push for serious research and cooperation with government bodies. We discuss the coalition's work with European institutions, the importance of flight safety, and efforts to improve UAP reporting across Europe. Overall, this episode offers a fascinating look at how personal ambition can evolve into a full-scale movement aimed at fostering transparency and policy change in the realm of UAP. UAP Coalition Netherlands: https://uapcoalitienederland.nl/en/ Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In this episode, I speak with Edoardo Russo, a founding member of the Italian Center for UFO Studies (CISU) and a prominent figure in European UFO research. We explore the history and mission of CISU, uncovering how the organisation has contributed to UFO research in Italy and across Europe. The discussion also highlights the role of UFO databases in tracking sightings and delves into a significant event at the European Parliament, which brought UAP to the political forefront. Additionally, Mr. Russo shares insights into UFO data from Italy, including a fascinating case involving military fighter jets. Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the key developments and ongoing efforts in European UFO research. Organisations mentioned in this episode: Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU): https://www.cisu.org/ UAP Check: https://www.uapcheck.com/ Edoardo Russo’s profile on CISU: https://www.cisu.org/edoardo-russo/ Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In this episode of European UFOs, we dive into a fascinating and often overlooked aspect of the UFO phenomenon: the intersection of consciousness, spirituality, and the unknown. Our guest, Guido Ferrari, a seasoned Swiss TV journalist and director, brings his unique insights to the discussion. With a career that includes interviews with prominent figures like the Dalai Lama and Karl Popper, Ferrari is no stranger to exploring the frontiers of science and the mysteries of consciousness. Together, we explore intriguing questions: How are UFOs connected to our state of consciousness? Can specific protocols be developed to engage with these phenomena? And what is the relationship between the physical aspects of UFOs and their reported spiritual qualities? This episode is presented in German. For those interested, a translated transcript is available upon request. Join us for a deep dive into the complex and mysterious world of UFOs and consciousness. More on Guido Ferrari’s work: Spiritual autobiography: https://a.co/d/3jzc3Q9 Website: https://guidoferrari.jimdofree.com Youtube: @guidoferrari2246 Get in touch with the show: Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In this episode, we delve into the scientific study of UFOs with Karl Svozil, a distinguished Austrian physicist and retired professor from the Institute for Theoretical Physics at Vienna Technical University. Despite the scarcity of rigorous studies on UFOs due to the ambiguous nature of the data and the often subjective interpretations within ufology, Svozil's new book, "UFOs: Unidentified Aerial Phenomena: Observations, Explanations, and Speculations," stands out as a beacon of rationality. Join us as we explore Svozil's meticulous research and his efforts to bring scientific rigour to the study of UFOs. With a background that includes significant contributions to quantum theory and theoretical physics, Svozil applies his expertise to UFOs. We discuss the key findings of his book and how they contribute to a clearer understanding of UFO phenomena, cutting through the haze of dubious claims and speculative theories. More on Karl Svozil’s work: His book, UFOs: Unidentified Aerial Phenomena: Observations, Explanations and Speculations: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-34398-8 Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Karl-Svozil Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In this episode, we explore the physics of UFOs with Dr Massimo Teodorani, an eminent astrophysicist with several decades of research experience. Anecdotal reports suggest that UFOs exhibit extraordinary physical characteristics, such as performing abrupt right-angle turns at high velocities and other manoeuvres that defy current technological capabilities. In addition UFOs have been observed to produce measurable impacts, including landing traces, electromagnetic disturbances, and, in some instances, medical effects on witnesses. Dr Teodorani, who holds a PhD in Stellar Physics, has conducted rigorous scientific investigations at numerous UFO hotspots, including Hessdalen in Norway, Arizona, and Ontario. His research aims to apply astrophysical measurement techniques to study UFOs, seeking to identify correlations among various physical parameters. This will make it possible to infer the propulsion mechanisms, physical composition, and overall behaviour of the UFO phenomenon. This episode delves into Dr Teodorani’s past and present research endeavours at the renowned UFO hotspot of Hessdalen. We discuss how the principles of astrophysics can advance our understanding of UFO phenomena through systematic data acquisition and empirical analysis. More on Dr Teodorani’s work: Personal website: https://massimoteodorani.com/ ResearchGate (lots of downloadable scientific papers!): https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Massimo-Teodorani Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

Today’s episode of European UFOs delves into the captivating realm of Scottish UFOs. Nestled in the remote corners of Central Scotland lies a village that has served as the epicentre of UFO sightings and close encounters since the early 1990s. Bonnybridge, framed by rolling hills, farmland, and misty moors, has earned its reputation as one of Europe’s most notorious UFO hotspots. In Scotland, UFO encounters often extend beyond mere sightings, with reports of direct interactions and abductions. Notably, the Dechmont Woods and the A70 case provide compelling evidence, offering insights into the abduction phenomenon. Joining us to explore Scottish UFOs is Malcom Robinson, a seasoned researcher with over 40 years of experience. Malcolm's extensive investigations, documented in 12 books, include some of Scotland’s most haunted places and UFO incidents, such as those in Bonnybridge, Dechmont Woods, and the A70 abduction. Through our discussion, we uncover Scotland's profound and complex history of UFO activity. More on Malcolm Robinson Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Malcolm-Robinson/author/B004DX3QOM?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1714933825&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Strange Phenomena Investigations: https://strange-phenomena-investigations.ueniweb.com/ Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In today’s episode we explore the intriguing history of UFOs in Spain. Over the past seven decades, UFOs have captured the imagination, spawning diverse interpretations ranging from religious devotion to scientific exploration. Amidst conflicting government narratives, the allure of UFOs persists, blending confusion with fascination. My guest, Ignacio Cabria, an esteemed authority on the history of Spain’s UFO history, leads us through the intricate tapestry of Spanish ufology. From esoteric contactee movements to formal research groups, Spain's UFO landscape is rich with varied perspectives and beliefs. Together, we focus on a pressing question: How do societal frameworks shape our understanding and perception of UFO phenomena? Join us as we unravel the layers of ufology's cultural significance in Spain and beyond. More on Ignacio Cabria’s work: https://independent.academia.edu/IgnacioCabria Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

In this episode, we delve into the enigmatic realm of UFO abductions, focusing particularly on how they unfold in France. Since the groundbreaking Betty and Barney Hill incident in 1961, the phenomenon of UFO abductions has captured public fascination, although it remains contentious within ufology. We confront two primary challenges: the surreal nature of abduction accounts, often involving inexplicable experiences like missing time, and the reliance on eyewitness testimony, which introduces inherent complexities. Despite these hurdles, exploring the abduction phenomenon unveils a fascinating psychological landscape. Our guest, Hélène Lansley, a Clinical Psychologist and Ph.D. student at the University of Lorraine, brings valuable insights from her research. Hélène's work involves analysing accounts of UAP and alien abductions, as well as providing support to individuals who report paranormal encounters through her role at CIRCEE (Center for Information, Research, and Consultation on Exceptional Experiences). Join us as we navigate the intricate terrain of UFO abductions, probing the intersection of extraterrestrial encounters and human psychology. Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos Links mentioned in this episode Interpsy, Université de Lorraine: https://interpsy.univ-lorraine.fr/eng/ CIRCEE (Center for Information, Research and Consultation on Exceptional Experiences): https://www.circee.org

In this episode, we enter the world of UFO crash retrievals, a fundamental aspect of ufology. Following the significant developments of 2023 when terms like reverse engineering, exploitation programs, and non-human technology became popular, we turn our attention to European UFO crash retrievals. Our focus centres on the recently launched European Crash Retrieval Initiative (ECRI), aiming to map and analyse alleged UFO crash sites in Europe, both contemporary and historical. Join me and E.T. Persson, Senior Advisor to ECRI, as we discuss the initiative's background, setup, and objectives. Get in touch with the show Twitter/X: @EuropeanUFOs Instagram: europeanufos Facebook: European UFOs Email: europeanufos@gmail.com Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos Links mentioned in this episode ECRI’s website: https://www.ecr-initiative.org/ To report a UFO crash site: https://vascoproject.org/report-a-ufo-crash/

In today's discussion, we take a deep dive into a critical aspect of ufology: the concept of evidence. Together with Dr. Jean-Michel Abrassart, a psychologist and UFO researcher, we explore the challenges associated with eyewitness accounts and their reliability. Dr. Jean-Michel Abrassart advocates the Psychosocial Model, proposing that many UFO sightings can be explained by mundane factors. We examine specific cases, such as the Belgian UFO wave of the late 1980s and early 1990s, to illustrate the complexities surrounding UFO evidence. Throughout our conversation, we engage in a friendly disagreement regarding the significance of alternative forms of evidence, like official government documents, in indicating anomalous phenomena. This episode goes beyond the sceptics vs. believers debate, prompting a thought-provoking question: what is UFO evidence, and how can we study it objectively? Interesting links Dr Abrassart’s Academia.edu page: https://independent.academia.edu/JeanMichelAbrassart Support the podcast to keep it ad-free: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/europeanufos

I am joined by Clas Svahn, international director of UFO-Sweden and chairman for Archives for the Unexplained, one of the largest UFO archives in the world. Together we explore the riches of this archive, with a particular focus on how it is currently used by researchers from across the world. In the second half of this episode we take a look at the Ghost Rockets phenomenon and two crash retrieval expeditions conducted by Clas. Interesting links/references: Archives for the Unexplained (AFU): https://www.afu.se/ AFU’s online archive: https://files.afu.se/Downloads UFO Sweden: https://www.afu.se/ Clas Svahn’s new book: UFO. Närkonktakterna Som Skakat Världen

I am joined by Heikki Kulju, a veteran UFO researcher and Chairman of the Finnish UFO Research Association, to discuss UFO research in Finland as well as a particularly thrilling case. In this episode you will learn about More about Heikki Kulju’s work Website of the Finnish UFO Research Association (includes a digital database of sightings): https://www.fufora.fi/ TV show: https://areena.yle.fi/1-62511247

I am joined by Dr Eltjo Haselhoff, a well published physicist and long-term researcher into the crop circle phenomenon, to discuss some key aspects of his work in the Netherlands and beyond. In this episode you will learn about More about Dr Haselhoff’s work: RearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eltjo-Haselhoff-2/research Website: https://www.simplerelativity.info/news.html Book on crop circles: The Deepening Complexity of Crop Circles: Scientific Research & Urban Legends. Frog Ltd. Berkeley, California. 2001

I am joined by Dr Eamonn Ansbro, Director and Research Astronomer at Kingsland Observatory in Ireland, to discuss his more than 30 years of research into UFOs. Based on the systematic and critical analysis of thousands of UFO reports Dr Ansbro was able to develop a scientific theory to model UAP activity on a global scale. This theory could be successfully verified by fieldwork. In this episode you will learn about Dr Ansbro on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eamonn-Ansbro

I am joined by Andreas Müller, a well-known and highly respected researcher and journalist, to discuss Germany’s UFO files. The epicentre of the Cold War for more than 40 years, Germany provides a historically complex and rather unique example of government involvement with UFOS. In this episode you will learn about: Amazon com link to Andreas Müller’s book on Germany’s UFO files (discussed in this episode): https://www.amazon.com/Deutschlands-UFO-Akten-politischen-UFO-Ph%C3%A4nomen-Betrachtungen/dp/3754306804/ref=sr_1_1?crid=102W9UHD4IAB9&keywords=andreas+M%C3%BCller%2C+deutschlands+ufo+akten&qid=1690037489&sprefix=andreas+m%C3%BCller%2C+deutschlands+ufo+akten%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1 Amazon de link to Andreas Müller’s new book on Germany’s historical UFO files: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/gp/product/3757806867/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1 Andreas Müller’s news website on anomalous phenomena: https://www.grenzwissenschaft-aktuell.de/