Stargazers across the UK were left in awe this evening after witnessing a mysterious and breathtaking light display in the sky — with many spotting it for up to ten minutes before it vanished.
The spectacle, seen just after 7:50 PM, was captured in stunning photographs, including one snapped at 8:01 PM by Kirsty Jones and Neil Stewart from Montgomery, Wales. The dazzling sight sparked speculation and excitement on social media, with many users posting images and videos of the strange phenomenon lighting up the night sky.
Initial reports suggest the display is most likely caused by excess fuel released from a SpaceX rocket, a phenomenon previously observed in other parts of the world during rocket stage separation or fuel venting in the upper atmosphere. When fuel is released at high altitudes, it can catch the sunlight and create a glowing or cloud-like formation, often mistaken for UFOs or auroras.
Witness Reaction
“It was like something from a sci-fi film,” said Neil Stewart. “We just happened to look up and there it was, glowing and shifting. We watched it for around 10 minutes. It was beautiful and eerie at the same time.”
Kirsty Jones added: “I’ve never seen anything like it before. We thought it might have been a satellite at first, but it was too bright and moving too oddly.”
Experts Point to Rocket Activity
While there has been no official confirmation yet, experts believe it’s highly likely the display was linked to a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch. Similar light trails have been recorded globally following SpaceX missions, especially when launches occur around twilight hours.
Astrophysicist Dr. Lena Patel explained:
“What people likely witnessed was the release of vented fuel in the upper atmosphere. When this happens at high altitude — typically over 100 km above Earth — the sunlight illuminates the particles, creating an otherworldly glow visible for hundreds of miles.”
Social Media Buzz
The event quickly trended across UK-based social media platforms. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “Just saw the strangest light trail across the sky in South Wales… definitely not a plane or meteor. SpaceX, is that you?”
Another user joked, “ET’s making a pitstop over Yorkshire.”
Still a Mystery for Some
Despite scientific explanations, the unexpected nature of the sighting continues to captivate people. Many are calling for more public information on rocket launches and satellite activity that may be visible from the UK.
For now, it remains a jaw-dropping reminder of just how small our world can feel under a vast and active sky.
Did you witness the event? Send your photos or footage to [email protected] or tag @UKNIP247 on social media.
