Why are people talking about SpaceX space jellyfish?
People are searching for 'space jellyfish' after a Falcon 9 rocket created a glowing, bulb-shaped exhaust cloud during a launch on October 13 [2]. A subsequent mission, Bandwagon-5, also created expectations for similar visual effects over Central Florida [1].
What happened
- 13 Oct, Earlier
A Falcon 9 rocket launch for NASA's 35th Commercial Resupply Services mission produced a visible jellyfish-like exhaust plume [2].
- 20 Oct, 06:30 UTC
SpaceX targeted a launch window for the Bandwagon-5 mission, which could potentially create another space jellyfish effect [1].
What you need to know
The effect occurs when sunlight hits rocket exhaust in the upper atmosphere while it is still dark on the ground [1].
The resulting glow looks like a bulb with tentacle-like trails [1].
These visuals typically happen during predawn launches [2].
It is not confirmed if the Bandwagon-5 launch successfully produced a visible jellyfish effect.
Background
The 'space jellyfish' is an optical phenomenon caused by gases expanding at high altitudes and being illuminated by the sun [1].
The Bandwagon-5 mission uses a Falcon 9 rocket to carry several small satellites and re-entry vehicles into orbit [1].
Questions people ask
What causes a space jellyfish?
It happens when rocket exhaust reaches high altitudes and is lit by the sun while the ground remains in darkness [1].
Where can these be seen?
They have recently been visible in the skies over Central Florida, including Indian Harbour Beach [1], [2].
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.