Science

Breathtaking Cosmic Spiral Lights Up UK Sky After SpaceX Launch!

2025-03-24

Author: Ming

Breathtaking Cosmic Spiral Lights Up UK Sky After SpaceX Launch!

A mesmerizing glowing spiral captivated onlookers in the night sky across parts of the UK on Monday, and experts believe it is linked to a recent SpaceX rocket launch from the U.S.

This stunning celestial display appeared for several minutes before gradually fading away, and it's thought to be the result of leftover fuel released by the Falcon 9 rocket, which recently lifted off from Florida at 1:50 PM local time (5:50 PM GMT) on a classified mission for the U.S. government.

The Falcon 9, a cutting-edge reusable rocket developed by Elon Musk's SpaceX, is renowned for its efficiency. After carrying its payload—often satellites or other crucial equipment—into space, the rocket elegantly maneuvers back towards Earth. During its descent, it expels remaining fuel, which rapidly freezes at high altitudes, creating a beautiful spiral pattern due to the rocket's trajectory. This frozen fuel reflects light beautifully, making the spiral visible from the ground.

Witness accounts detailed that the glowing formation was spotted in various locations in England and Wales, even reaching parts of continental Europe. Renowned astronomer Allan Trow reported seeing the spectacle above Bannau Brycheiniog National Park in Wales around 8:00 PM.

Trow recounted a similar experience from four years prior, noting the rarity of such events. "These phenomena are pretty rare," he told the BBC, firmly attributing the spiral to the recent rocket activity.

SpaceX also confirmed the significance of the launch via X (formerly Twitter), indicating it was part of a National Reconnaissance Office mission, while the Kennedy Space Center emphasized the classified nature of this endeavor.

As our fascination with space continues to grow, events like these remind us of the incredible technological advancements at our fingertips and the breathtaking spectacles they bring to our skies. Keep your eyes on the stars because you never know what cosmic wonders may appear next!