It has happened again. Social media users in eastern Cuba reported on Tuesday afternoon the appearance of an unusual light in the sky, sparking curiosity and speculation.
However, the phenomenon was related to the launch of the Falcon 9 rocket, from the company SpaceX, which took off at approximately 6:21 p.m. from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
The stunning spectacle was not only visible in Cuba but also in other regions of the Caribbean, such as Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.
The peculiar luminous trail observed is the result of the rocket's engine combustion, whose visibility is influenced by factors such as the type of fuel used, the low atmospheric pressure at high altitudes, and the solar illumination at that moment during sunset, as pointed out by meteorologist Henry Delgado Manzor on Facebook.
Delgado Manzor, who shared striking images, added that this type of visual phenomenon is common during rocket launches, especially when they occur under specific weather and lighting conditions.
SpaceX, the company founded by Elon Musk, continues to conduct regular launches as part of its space missions, including sending satellites and supplies to the International Space Station.
This launch is part of their operations schedule from Cape Canaveral, one of the leading space activity hubs in the world.
In recent years, there have been several instances where residents in Cuba and also in Florida have witnessed this unique phenomenon. However, many continue to be taken by surprise.
Since obtaining the original license to operate the first-generation Starlink network, SpaceX has launched thousands of satellites since 2018 and provides high-speed internet to over a million locations around the world, according to the company founded by magnate Elon Musk.
According to Space.com, the company has permission to launch 12,000 satellites, but it has requested approval from an international regulator to launch up to 30,000 more.
The company explains that while most internet services come from satellites orbiting about 35,000 kilometers away, the Starlink constellation is much closer to Earth, at around 550 kilometers, allowing it to reduce the time it takes for data to travel back and forth between the user and the satellite.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sightings of Unusual Lights in the Sky over Cuba
What caused the unusual light in the sky over Cuba?
The unusual light in the sky over Cuba was caused by the launch of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. This rocket lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and its luminous trail was visible in Cuba and other regions of the Caribbean due to the combustion of its engines and specific atmospheric conditions.
Why is the Falcon 9 rocket visible from such a distance?
The Falcon 9 rocket is visible from afar due to the combustion of its engines and atmospheric conditions. Factors such as the type of fuel, low atmospheric pressure at high altitudes, and sunlight at sunset contribute to the launch being visible from great distances.
What is the Starlink project by SpaceX mentioned in the news?
The Starlink project by SpaceX aims to provide high-speed Internet through a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites. SpaceX has launched thousands of satellites to offer global connectivity and plans to significantly increase their number. These satellites are closer to Earth than traditional satellites, which reduces data transmission time.
What other celestial phenomena have been observed recently in Cuba?
Recently, auroras borealis and remnants of rockets disintegrating in the atmosphere have been observed in Cuba. These phenomena are rare in the region and have generated interest and speculation among residents. The auroras were caused by an intense geomagnetic storm, while the rocket remnants were related to failures in space launches.
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