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SpaceX launch could create ‘space jellyfish’ over Central Florida skies
WKMG • • science
Key Points:
- SpaceX is set to launch the Bandwagon-5 mission from Cape Canaveral on Tuesday morning, with a one-hour window opening at 6:30 a.m., after a previous delay due to unfavorable weather.
- The mission involves a rideshare carrying smaller satellites and re-entry vehicles designed to bring some satellites back to Earth.
- A notable visual phenomenon called a ‘space jellyfish’ may be visible during the launch, created by sunlight illuminating the rocket exhaust at high altitudes, producing a glowing, tentacle-like cloud.
- This launch marks the 19th flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster, which will attempt to land on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas in the Atlantic Ocean after stage separation.
- A backup launch opportunity is scheduled for Wednesday if Tuesday’s attempt is postponed.
