SpaceX Launch Creates Stunning 'Jellyfish' Cloud Over Tampa Bay

Spectacular noctilucent clouds, formed by rocket exhaust, are becoming more common sights thanks to increased space launches.

Mar. 5, 2026 at 6:35am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Residents across Tampa Bay and beyond were treated to a stunning celestial display on Wednesday morning - a strangely shaped cloud formation resembling a jellyfish. This was not a typical weather event, but rather a fascinating byproduct of a recent SpaceX Starlink launch from Cape Canaveral.

Why it matters

While noctilucent clouds aren't entirely new, their frequency and visibility seem to be increasing, likely due to the growing number of space launches like those conducted by SpaceX. This event highlights the growing intersection between space exploration and our natural world, raising questions about the long-term effects of increased rocket activity on the upper atmosphere.

The details

These ethereal clouds, officially known as noctilucent clouds, are high-altitude formations made of ice crystals that can reflect sunlight even when the sun is below the horizon, giving them a glowing appearance. Meteorologist Courteney Jacobazzi of 10 Tampa Bay News explained that these clouds form when rocket exhaust is illuminated by the sun's early rays. The atmosphere gets incredibly cold at high altitudes, allowing these clouds to take on unique, ever-changing shapes.

  • The SpaceX Starlink launch that created the 'jellyfish' cloud occurred on Wednesday morning.

The players

SpaceX

An American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company that has played a significant role in the rise of noctilucent clouds through its frequent rocket launches.

Courteney Jacobazzi

A meteorologist at 10 Tampa Bay News who explained the formation of the noctilucent clouds.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“These ethereal clouds, officially known as noctilucent clouds, are high-altitude formations made of ice crystals that can reflect sunlight even when the sun is below the horizon, giving them a glowing appearance.”

— Courteney Jacobazzi, Meteorologist

What’s next

Scientists are studying whether the increasing number of launches is contributing to a rise in the frequency of noctilucent clouds, and what impact this might have on atmospheric conditions.

The takeaway

This event highlights a growing intersection between space exploration and our natural world. As space launches become more frequent, we can expect to see these types of stunning cloud displays more often, raising important questions about the long-term environmental impact of increased rocket activity.