Mysterious Spiral Light Display Over UK Skies Explained as SpaceX Rocket Exhaust
A luminous, swirling spiral captivated observers across the United Kingdom on Monday evening, igniting speculation about potential extraterrestrial phenomena. However, this captivating celestial display has been officially attributed to the exhaust plume from a SpaceX rocket launch.
Initial Sightings and Speculation
The expanding swirl, visible for several minutes throughout Britain, initially led some to believe they were witnessing an aircraft or even signs of alien life. The unusual spiral formation prompted widespread curiosity and discussion across social media platforms.
SpaceX Launch Confirmed as Cause
It has now been confirmed that the ethereal spectacle was a consequence of a launch conducted by Elon Musk’s SpaceX aerospace company. The launch for the US government originated from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, occurring shortly before 1:50 PM local time (5:50 PM GMT). The Falcon 9 rocket’s frozen exhaust is understood to be the source of the striking visual effect.
Official Explanation from Met Office
The UK’s Met Office addressed the phenomenon on the social media platform X, stating: “The rocket’s frozen exhaust plume appears to be rotating within the upper atmosphere and reflecting sunlight. This reflection causes the plume to be perceived as a spiral formation when viewed from the ground.”
Widespread Visibility and Public Reaction
This mesmerizing atmospheric event was not limited to the UK, but was observed across a large portion of Europe. Numerous individuals utilized social media networks to share recordings and images of the twisting, celestial sight.
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Eyewitness Accounts
Steven Hall, a resident of Suffolk, recounted his experience to the BBC, describing a “huge catherine wheel which appeared to have its own atmosphere around it” as he was outside his home. He admitted considering whether it could be an “unexplained, unidentified flying object.”
Dave, from Bristol, shared his initial interpretation of the blue spiral, stating he first thought it was “a plane with its headlight on.” He further elaborated, “It suddenly went blurry, leading me to believe it had entered a cloud. However, I quickly realized there were no clouds present.”
Describing his evolving understanding, Dave continued, “I observed this indistinct light for approximately a minute. Suddenly, it began projecting spiral arms and rotating. I immediately recognized it as a SpaceX phenomenon, having seen similar occurrences on platforms like YouTube. However, I can understand why others might have found it unsettling – it genuinely possessed an otherworldly appearance.”