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Space jellyfish

Meteorology

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A space jellyfish is a striking optical effect created when a rocket is launched during twilight. It occurs because sunlight reflects off the high altitude plume gases emitted by the ascending rocket while observers on the ground below remain in darkness, producing a luminous, jellyfish shaped apparition that expands across the sky. Such sightings have historically caused public confusion and have sometimes been mistaken for unidentified flying objects.

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