A SpaceX rocket launch created a striking glow over Florida, drawing attention to an unusual cloud formation. NASA confirmed the cargo mission.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch from Florida early Tuesday produced a striking display in the sky, with local reports describing a glowing formation resembling a jellyfish.
The rocket lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 6:33 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on October 13, according to NASA. The launch carried a Dragon spacecraft on the company’s 35th commercial resupply mission to the International Space Station.
NASA said the spacecraft was carrying more than 6,300 pounds of supplies, hardware and scientific investigations. Its cargo included the final pair of roll-out solar arrays intended for the orbiting laboratory. The Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to arrive at the station on Thursday, October 15.
The unusual appearance reported in Florida is associated with the way rocket exhaust and illuminated gases can spread through the upper atmosphere, creating broad, luminous shapes that are visible from the ground under suitable conditions. The exact appearance depends on factors including altitude, sunlight and atmospheric conditions.
The launch itself was confirmed by NASA. Descriptions of the cloud as a “jellyfish” formation have appeared in local coverage, but that description refers to its visual appearance rather than an official classification of the phenomenon.
The event once again highlighted how rocket launches can be visible well beyond the launch site, attracting attention from residents who may not immediately recognize the source of the unusual light in the sky.
Sources: NASA, “NASA Science, Cargo Launch on 35th SpaceX Resupply Mission to Station,” October 13, 2026; NASA, “SpaceX Dragon Lifts Off for Thursday Cargo Delivery,” October 13, 2026; local reporting from UpNorthLive and WFLA.