LEE COUNTY, Fla. —
SpaceX launched one of its Falcon 9 rockets from Cape Canaveral Tuesday morning, and the incredible sight and resulting “Space Jellyfish” could be seen lighting up the Gulf Coast sky.
The “space jellyfish,” or “noctilucent clouds,” phenomenon happens when rocket launches occur close to sunrise or sunset. When the rocket reaches a high altitude, it’s exposed to direct sunlight while it’s still dark on the ground. Sunlight then refracts through the rocket’s exhaust fumes, creating the glowing effect.
Viewers from across the Gulf Coast snapped pictures of the spectacular sight.
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View the photo gallery below to see photos of the “Space Jellyfish” from across the Gulf Coast.
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