SpaceX rocket launch creates incredible 'space jellyfish' visible throughout US East Coast (photos)
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch from Cape Canaveral on October 13 created a rare 'space jellyfish' phenomenon visible from Florida to Virginia. The spectacle was caused by the expanding plume of fuel exhaust crystallizing in the sky and reflecting sunlight off frozen particles. Multiple photos and videos captured the stunning display, which was seen by many along the East Coast.
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- ✓ The SpaceX CRS-35 launch created a 'space jellyfish' plume visible from Florida to Virginia.
- ✓ The phenomenon was caused by the expanding plume of fuel exhaust crystallizing in the sky and reflecting sunlight off frozen particles.
- ✓ The launch was a cargo mission to the International Space Station.
What changed
Additional photos and videos of the 'space jellyfish' phenomenon have been shared, confirming its visibility across a wider area of the East Coast.
Live updates
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SpaceX rocket launch creates 'space jellyfish' visible across US East Coast
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch from Cape Canaveral on October 13 created a rare 'space jellyfish' phenomenon visible from Florida to Virginia. The spectacle was caused by the expanding plume of fuel exhaust crystallizing in the sky and reflecting sunlight off frozen particles. Multiple photos and videos captured the stunning display, which was seen by many along the East Coast.
Why it matters
The SpaceX CRS-35 launch was a cargo mission to the International Space Station. The 'space jellyfish' effect is a rare atmospheric phenomenon that occurs when a rocket's exhaust plume interacts with the atmosphere. NASA and SpaceX often collaborate on such missions, with NASA providing coverage for the launch and arrival.
What is confirmed
- The SpaceX CRS-35 launch created a 'space jellyfish' plume visible from Florida to Virginia.
- The phenomenon was caused by the expanding plume of fuel exhaust crystallizing in the sky and reflecting sunlight off frozen particles.
- The launch was a cargo mission to the International Space Station.
What to watch next
- Further analysis of the 'space jellyfish' phenomenon by atmospheric scientists
- Upcoming SpaceX launches and potential similar spectacles
- NASA's continued coverage of SpaceX's station resupply missions
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (11)
- Space — SpaceX rocket launch creates incredible 'space jellyfish' visible throughout US East Coast (photos)
- FOX 13 Tampa Bay — Photos: SpaceX CRS-35 launch creates 'space jellyfish' over Bay Area
- WFLA — What is that strange cloud in the sky?
- Hilton Head Island Packet — Did you see it? Jellyfish-shaped orb visible in Hilton Head skies Tuesday morning
- NASA (.gov) — NASA Sets Coverage for SpaceX 35th Station Resupply Launch, Arrival
- www.space.com — SpaceX rocket launch creates incredible 'space jellyfish ...
- wtop.com — SEE IT: SpaceX launch creates ‘space jellyfish’ effect - WTOP
- www.theguardian.com — SpaceX rocket launch causes stunning ‘jellyfish cloud ...
- www.techtimes.com — SpaceX Falcon 9 Launch Lights Up Dawn Sky With a Glowing ...
- weather.com — SpaceX launch creates glowing 'space jellyfish' in the sky
- discover.swns.com — SpaceX launch creates spectacular 'space jellyfish' over US ...
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