Introduction
A SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on the evening of Sept. 28, 2025 created a dramatic, glowing plume that stretched across the Western U.S. — and many local viewers in Arizona and California initially mistook the sight for a UFO.
The rocket deployed 28 Starlink satellites and the combination of twilight lighting and high-altitude exhaust produced the unusual “jellyfish” or comet-like effect that made photos and videos go viral.
Why it matters
These twilight launches are common but visually striking. They show how routine space operations can surprise the public and trigger alarms or curiosity. Clear explanations help reduce calls to emergency services, inform skywatchers when to expect displays, and remind communities to watch official launch notices.
What people saw — bright streaks, expanding plumes and long trails
Witnesses described a bright, fast streak followed by a broad, glowing cloud that slowly expanded and faded. Photographers compared the effect to a luminous jellyfish or a comet.
The phenomenon occurs when a rocket climbs into the thin upper atmosphere at dusk: exhaust gases expand rapidly and sunlight from below the horizon lights the plume against the dark sky, producing vivid colors and a wide, diffuse shape visible for hundreds of miles.
Local TV stations and social feeds in Arizona and California were flooded with images and eyewitness reports. Times of India, local Arizona outlets and Space.com published photo roundups and explanations as the spectacle spread across social media.
Emergency services reported a spike in curious calls, though officials quickly clarified the sight was a rocket launch and not a hazard.
Why twilight launches look so strange
There are three key reasons:
- Altitude & atmosphere: At high altitude the air is thin, letting exhaust expand into a wide cloud.
- Sun angle: When the sun is below the horizon for ground observers but still lights the plume from below, the exhaust glows brightly.
- Perspective: From hundreds of miles away the ascending rocket and expanding plume can look like a slow, glowing object moving across the sky rather than a distant rocket.
Did the launch go normally? — mission details
Yes. Spaceflight reports confirm the Falcon 9 successfully placed 28 Starlink satellites into orbit and recovered its first-stage booster on the droneship as planned. The launch schedule and mission success point to routine operations — the extraordinary part was purely the atmospheric optics that made the plume so visible and unusual to casual observers.
What officials and observers recommend
- Check official launch notices (NOTAMs): Aviation and range authorities issue notices before launches — they’re the best source for timing and visibility.
- Don’t assume danger: bright trails and glowing clouds from dusk launches are usually harmless atmospheric effects. If in doubt, consult local news or official spaceport channels.
- Share responsibly: photographers and social posts help scientists and reporters document the event — but avoid spreading alarmist claims without verification.
Bottom line
The “UFO” seen over Arizona and California was a Falcon 9 launch turned into a light show by the right combination of altitude, sunset and atmospheric conditions. The spectacle captivated viewers and produced excellent photos — and it’s a reminder that many mysterious sky sightings have clear, natural explanations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the rocket trail look like a jellyfish or comet?
At dusk, sunlight from below the horizon can illuminate a high-altitude exhaust plume as it expands in thin air, producing a wide, glowing cloud that looks like a jellyfish or comet.
Was this a SpaceX Starlink launch?
Yes — the Falcon 9 launched from Vandenberg carried 28 Starlink satellites and completed its mission, including an on-time booster recovery.
Could this be dangerous to people on the ground?
No — the visual effect is atmospheric. Launch debris is tracked and managed; local authorities or range officials will issue warnings for any safety concerns. Most calls to emergency services are for information and photos, not rescue.
How can I know when launches will be visible?
Check launch notices from the launch provider and range (SpaceX mission page, NOTAMs) and local news outlets; timing near sunrise or sunset often provides the best visibility for dramatic plumes.
Where can I find photos and videos of the event?
Space.com, local news outlets and social platforms have photo roundups and user uploads showing the glowing plume and public reaction.
Author note: I’m a space reporter compiling live coverage and local reporting to explain what people saw over Arizona and California. The description uses Space.com’s atmospheric explanation and local eyewitness reports; mission details come from launch coverage and SpaceX mission data. I avoid speculation and focus on verifiable causes and official guidance.