A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket created a rare jellyfish-shaped light display during an October 2026 launch to the International Space Station.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket soared into the sky on October 13, 2026. The rocket carried a Dragon spacecraft toward space. Sunlight hit the exhaust plumes during the flight. This created a unique glowing shape in the air.
Experts call this visual event a jellyfish. It occurs near sunrise or sunset. The rocket exhaust reflects light to look like the sea creature. Many people across the eastern United States saw the bright plumes.
The mission started early at 6:33 a.m. EDT. It launched from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This location sits in Florida. The rocket lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40.
Next, the Falcon 9 rocket began its journey to the International Space Station. This marks the 35th commercial resupply trip for NASA. The craft carries vital scientific tools for researchers.
Also, the mission includes important supplies for the crew members. The equipment supports ongoing work in orbit. NASA relies on these regular flights for its station needs.
After that, the uncrewed Dragon spacecraft will reach its destination. It plans to dock with the International Space Station on October 15. This process involves a careful rendezvous in space.
Finally, NASA will provide live coverage of the docking. The broadcast begins at 9:15 a.m. EDT. Viewers can watch the craft arrive online. This mission shows the power of modern space travel.
The beautiful jellyfish effect highlights the beauty of rocket science. Such events remind us of the activity above our atmosphere. These missions keep the space station running smoothly every day.