A remarkable sight captivated numerous residents across the UK on the night of March 24, as a mysterious glowing spiral orb illuminated the sky. The phenomenon was reported in various locations including Greater Manchester, Derbyshire, Lancashire, Staffordshire, and Wales.
The occurrence is believed to be linked to the launch of a Falcon 9 rocket by SpaceX, which took off from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station just after 1:45 PM local time (17:50 GMT). This particular mission, known as NROL-69, was classified and involved a payload for the National Reconnaissance Office. Following the launch, the Falcon 9 rocket released excess fuel into the atmosphere, creating a distinctive display that was visible from the ground as the fuel froze and reflected light.
Astronomer Allan Trow confirmed the event's occurrence above Bannau Brycheiniog national park in Wales at around 8 PM, noting, “These are pretty rare,” while also indicating that the rocket launch was a likely source of the spectacle. The unusual spiral shape can occur when a rocket vents leftover fuel during its ascent; the fuel freezes at high altitudes and can create visible swirling patterns as it reflects sunlight.
Social media platforms were flooded with reactions as shocked onlookers shared images and videos of the mysterious light. Many expressed confusion, speculating about its nature, with some playfully suggesting it could be a UFO or even making light-hearted comments about it being “Batman’s new call sign.” Posts ranged from expressions of awe to questions about the entity’s legitimacy, with one individual reporting, "It just kept spinning," and another from Horwich, Bolton, commenting on how “absolutely beautiful” it looked.
Reports of the spiral orb flooded from various regions including Yorkshire, Hertfordshire, Bristol, Milton Keynes, and Kent. Observers described the object as appearing to spin slowly before fading from view. One witness from Radcliffe noted, "Has anyone else just seen this over Radcliffe in the sky because me and the kids are freaked out?" A local in Denton observed, “One bright thing with white misty rings round it. Moving slow for ages then completely disappeared.”
Similar phenomena have been associated with SpaceX launches in the past, and experts clarified that the spiral is generated when excess fuel released turns to ice and reflects sunlight, culminating in a visually striking display. The University of Hertfordshire Observatory referred to the occurrence as a result of a SpaceX rocket, reiterating the connection to the earlier launch of the Falcon 9.
Overall, the incident, reminiscent of previous spiral sightings linked to rocket launches, continues to intrigue both the public and wildlife enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of modern technology and natural observation. The SpaceX launch and its aftermath appear to have created a unique spectacle that resonated with numerous observers across the UK.
Source: Noah Wire Services