SpaceX rocket launches are creating unexpected light shows in the sky, called “SpaceX auroras.” These striking red orbs of light are the result of holes punched in the ionosphere — the part of the Earth’s atmosphere where gas is ionized — by de-orbiting rocket boosters. While they are not a threat to life on Earth, scientists are still studying these phenomena and evaluating their impact on scientific research.
For example, when a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched Starlink satellites into orbit, it ripped open a hole above Arizona that made the sky bleed red. Following this, the McDonald Observatory in Texas spotted similar unique red lights appearing long after the Falcon 9 rocket left Earth’s atmosphere. These lights are smaller and more spherical than the streaks created by launching rockets, and they are created by ionospheric holes carved out by the rockets’ secondary boosters as they fall back to Earth.
The ionospheric holes are caused by the release of fuel into the ionosphere, exciting gas molecules and triggering vibrant streaks of red light. De-orbiting of boosters releases fuel, forms holes at an altitude of about 185 miles and poses a potential problem for shortwave radio communication and GPS signals.
SpaceX launches, which are becoming more frequent, increase the possibility of these light shows and have implications for our understanding of the ionosphere. The resulting impact on scientific research is of increasing interest among researchers. Additionally, it is essential to study and understand these effects to ensure they do not interfere with signals or communication systems.
In conclusion, the unusual and frequent appearances of SpaceX auroras and spirals in the night sky are a growing focus of scientific attention that hold great potential for enhancing our understanding of the ionosphere and its impact on the surrounding environment.
