Florence County, South Carolina Falcon 9 Launch Leaves Rare Noctilucent Cloud Glow Visible 50–55 Miles Above Earth
FLORENCE COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA — A Falcon 9 rocket launch early this morning left behind more than just a streak across the sky. Residents captured a rare and delicate noctilucent cloud formation glowing high above the region, a shimmering display created roughly 50 to 55 miles above the Earth’s surface.
The striking image, photographed by Adam Pfahlert, shows a luminous, bluish-white cloud suspended against the dark predawn sky — a phenomenon that can appear almost otherworldly when conditions align just right.
What Created the Glowing Cloud?
According to the information provided with the image, the cloud formed in the wake of the Falcon 9 launch from Florence County. As the rocket climbed through the upper atmosphere, it left behind a trail of moisture and particles at extremely high altitudes.
Sunlight then reflected off tiny ice crystals created in the rocket’s exhaust plume. Because these ice crystals formed in the mesosphere — roughly 50 to 55 miles above the surface — they were able to catch sunlight even while the ground below remained in darkness. That contrast between the dark sky and illuminated ice particles produces the brilliant glowing appearance seen in the image.
What Are Noctilucent Clouds?
Noctilucent clouds are among the highest clouds in Earth’s atmosphere. Unlike typical weather clouds, which form in the troposphere, noctilucent clouds develop in the mesosphere — the extremely thin, cold layer far above commercial air traffic.
They are typically visible during twilight hours when:
- The sun is below the horizon for observers on the ground
- High-altitude ice crystals remain illuminated
- Skies are clear enough to see the glow
While noctilucent clouds can occur naturally, rocket launches have increasingly been linked to enhanced displays due to water vapor released at extreme altitudes.
A Rare Sight for Observers
The image shows a broad, fan-shaped glow stretching upward from the horizon, with faint rippling patterns visible inside the illuminated cloud mass. Stars remain visible around the glowing formation, highlighting just how high above the Earth the event occurred.
Such displays are not an everyday occurrence, and when they do appear, they often generate widespread attention from skywatchers and photographers.
For residents who happened to glance skyward at the right moment, the Falcon 9 launch provided not just a technological milestone — but a stunning atmospheric light show. NapervilleLocal.com will continue monitoring significant regional and national atmospheric events that create visible impacts across the sky.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.