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Rocket launches could lead to ‘space jellyfish’ in Florida sky. Here’s what it is, why it happens

SpaceX launch could create atmospheric phenomenon

SpaceX launch creates "space jellyfish" effect in sky. (Copyright 2022 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.)

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – If the weather and a rocket cooperate, Central Florida can sometimes be treated to a fun atmospheric phenomenon.

A “space jellyfish” is an effect caused when light reflects off the rocket’s exhaust plume in the atmosphere amid the evening hours after sunset.

[Check out video of ‘space jellyfish’ below]

From the ground, it looks like a bulb-like effect in the sky, kind of like a jellyfish.

Whether we get to see the space jellyfish depends on the weather.

So train your cameras to the sky during a launch, and if you see the jellyfish, don’t forget to send us a photo, using the PinIt! function on the News 6 app, or on the PinIt! page on ClickOrlando.com.


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