Are ‘space jellyfish’ in the sky a natural occurrence?

If you noticed illuminated streaks in the sky in early March, that’s not mother nature putting on a show for Floridians.

It’s the direct effect of launching rockets at sunrise or sunset. When the rocket launches, it releases exhaust gases into the thinner air of the upper atmosphere. 

If the sky is clear, the sun –– while rising or setting –– is at the perfect angle to illuminate the plume of exhaust, creating a visual spectacle some have dubbed a “space jellyfish.”

With Florida being the launch capital of the world, the visual effect can be pretty common for Floridians looking up at the right moments.