SpaceX launch streaks across Arizona skies. Here's what to know
SpaceX launched a rocket carrying 22 satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Southern California on Monday night, sending a unique bright light shooting across Arizona skies.
The launch had originally been scheduled for Friday, but it was rescheduled several times due to unfavorable weather conditions.
This launch comes after Arizonans reported a trail of light in the sky on March 18, which was a glimpse of the Starlink mission that SpaceX held that evening.
The beaming light was seen again on Monday night from Tucson, Phoenix and some parts of northern Arizona, with people capturing photos and videos of the enthralling event.
On social media, residents shared images of the sight, with some pictures showing the rocket's aureole-like trace on the sky and some showing a "jellyfish pattern."
Falcon 9 @SpaceX launch view from Tucson, AZ
The clouds blocked the famous jellyfish pattern but still cool to see nonetheless. pic.twitter.com/4aCuOjv31F— Nghtclaw Media (@nghtclaw) April 2, 2024
What is SpaceX?
Space Exploration Technologies Corporation, more widely known as SpaceX, is an astronautics company owned and co-founded by multimillionaire Elon Musk.
The company manufactures spacecraft and launches communication satellites to space intending to deliver broadband internet services
Where did SpaceX launch from?
The rocket launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in the central coast of California.
The base is located in Santa Barbara County, about 5 miles from the small town of Vandenberg Village.
The closest city is Lompoc, located about 10 miles south of the base, followed by Santa Maria, about 17 miles north.
SpaceX as seen above Fountain Hills, AZ tonight! #SpaceX pic.twitter.com/72qINrYmPR
— Cira Storms (@sonoranstorms) April 2, 2024
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What was in the sky last night? SpaceX launch seen over Arizona