Atlas V Rocket Launch From Cape Canaveral Leaves Dazzling Trail

Early risers in Florida saw a fiery streak in the twilit sky on Thursday, August 8, as an Atlas V rocket carrying a military communications satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

The Atlas V rocket was embarking on a six-hour mission to deliver the satellite, rocket manufacturer United Launch Alliance (ULA) said.

The satellite was intended to provide the military with “jam-resistant” and enhanced communication, according to a Space and Missile Systems Center press release.

ULA said the rocket launched from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station launch area at 6.13 am.

Bright trails from the launch were seen across the state, with reports out of Stuart, St Petersburg, and parts of South Florida.

This video, taken near the launch site, shows a curly trail left behind from the rocket during sunrise. The Twitter user who shared this video described the launch as “unreal.” Credit: @raulpaula_23 via Storyful