NewsWFLA News TampaAugust 25, 2026Hillsborough
SpaceX Rocket Launch Creates Unusual Cloud Over Tampa
A SpaceX rocket launch early Tuesday morning created a glowing cloud in the sky known as a noctilucent cloud. This phenomenon occurred when the rocket's exhaust plume, high in the atmosphere, was lit up by the sun just before sunrise.
Read the full story at WFLA News TampaWhy It Matters
Residents may have noticed an unusual, bright cloud in the sky and this explains that it was a harmless byproduct of a scheduled rocket launch.
Key Facts
- The cloud was caused by a SpaceX Starlink mission launch.
- The launch took place around 5:20 a.m. on Tuesday.
- The visual effect was created by sunlight hitting the rocket's exhaust plume high in the atmosphere.