SpaceX rockets open blood-red ‘atmospheric holes’ in the sky

The launch of SpaceX rockets causes temporary holes to form in the upper layers of the atmosphere and bright points of light to appear in the sky. According to scientists, these spots do not pose a threat to the environment on Earth.

May cause astronomy and communication problems

Researchers have dubbed this effect the “SpaceX polar aurora,” and they look like glowing balls of red light. Scientists have argued for decades that rocket launches contribute to holes in the upper ionosphere, visible at distances of 80 to 644 kilometers.

These holes formed in the atmosphere can activate gas molecules, causing bright red streaks of light that resemble aurora borealis. Experts worry that these blood-red light displays could cause unknown problems for astronomy and communications.