SpaceX launch creates ‘space jellyfish’ over Grand Isle, Southeast - WAFB

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch created a visually striking 'space jellyfish' effect over the southeastern United States. The phenomenon occurred when exhaust plumes from the rocket crystallized in the upper atmosphere at dawn, catching the sunlight.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of commercial space exploration and public interest in atmospheric phenomena.
GRAND ISLE, La. (WAFB) - Talk about a grand view!
A resupply mission to the International Space Station gave Grand Isle a front-row seat to a glowing “space jellyfish” early Tuesday, part of a sky show seen across the Southeast.
Landon Braud, a high school teacher and coach from Ascension Parish, captured photos over Grand Isle just after 5:30 a.m. Tuesday.
SpaceX launched the Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The Dragon spacecraft, carrying more than 6,300 pounds of supplies and scientific equipment, is scheduled to reach the space station Thursday.
Also covering this story
4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
NASA launches SpaceX CRS-35 resupply mission to the International Space Station
Saudi researchers launch landmark space mission to study aging and brain disorders
Wild photos and videos of a “space jellyfish” behind a rocket are quickly going viral. NASA explains the magic behind the jaw-dropping sight
SpaceX rocket launch creates incredible 'space jellyfish' visible throughout US East Coast (photos) - Space
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in