SpaceX is targeting Friday, Nov. 13, for the 15th test flight of its Starship rocket, a mission that could treat residents across south Louisiana to a phenomenon known as a “space jellyfish.” The launch window from Starbase in south Texas opens at 4:45 p.m. CST and extends through 6 p.m., pending the necessary regulatory approvals.
The display occurs when rocket exhaust expands in the high atmosphere, catching the light of the sun even after it has set for those on the ground.
According to WAFB, the timing of the liftoff is critical; because sunset in Baton Rouge is approximately 5:08 p.m. on Friday, a launch during the later portion of the window provides the best conditions for the glowing, jellyfish-shaped cloud to appear against a darkening sky.
Projections suggest that a launch occurring before 5:30 p.m. is unlikely to be visible to local observers. Even if the timing aligns, the rocket’s trajectory will keep it low on the southern horizon, meaning viewers will need an unobstructed line of sight to the south to stand a chance of spotting the display.
While clouds are not currently expected to impede visibility, the event remains subject to the realities of aerospace scheduling.
This mission marks a technical milestone for SpaceX. For the first time, the company intends to attempt to return and catch both the Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage at its launch facility. Beyond the hardware recovery test, the flight plan includes the deployment of 26 Starlink satellites into orbit. The company expects to begin a live webcast of the proceedings approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled liftoff.
Residents in areas like Grand Isle have previously witnessed the phenomenon during an earlier SpaceX launch.
SpaceX has confirmed that the launch schedule remains subject to change based on weather and technical readiness. Those hoping to catch the display should monitor the company’s official channels for updates as the 75-minute window approaches on Friday.
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