Why is the SpaceX Bandwagon-5 launch trending?
SpaceX is launching the Bandwagon-5 rideshare mission from Florida on October 19. The early morning timing may create a visible, glowing exhaust plume known as a 'space jellyfish' for observers on the ground.
What happened
- Earlier
A SpaceX launch was visible across several states from Alabama to Maryland [1].
- 19 Oct, 06:30 UTC
SpaceX targets a launch window between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. for the Bandwagon-5 mission [1].
What you need to know
The 'space jellyfish' is actually rocket exhaust and water illuminated by the sun [1].
The best views for this specific launch are expected in the Caribbean and central or southern Florida [1].
Observers should look toward the southeastern sky away from bright streetlights [1].
The effect is most likely to occur if the rocket lifts off early in the launch window [1].
It is not confirmed if the plume will be visible to observers in North Carolina, though it is possible [1].
Background
The Bandwagon-5 mission uses a Falcon 9 rocket to carry multiple satellites into orbit [1].
This follows other recent activity, such as NASA's 35th SpaceX resupply mission which delivered scientific hardware and solar arrays to the International Space Station [2].
Questions people ask
What is a space jellyfish?
It is a glowing cloud of rocket exhaust that expands at high altitudes and catches sunlight while the ground is still dark [1].
Is the glowing cloud falling back to Earth?
No, it is composed of rocket exhaust and other materials, primarily water [1].
Where this came from
Found through Google Trends and drafted with AI from at least two cited sources. Published automatically after passing our automated checks for sources, wording and safety. It may not have been reviewed by a person yet. Report a correction.