© 2025 All Rights reserved WUSF
WUSF
BBC World Service
WUSF
BBC World Service
Next Up: 0:00 AM BBC World Service
0:00
0:00
BBC World Service
WUSF
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Thanks to you, WUSF is here — delivering fact-based news and stories that reflect our community.⁠ Your support powers everything we do.

Rocket Launch Illuminates Tampa Bay Sky, Wows Early Risers

Thursday's launch of the United Launch Alliance communications satellite lit up the sky over Northdale.
JULIO OCHOA / WUSF PUBLIC MEDIA
Thursday's launch of the United Launch Alliance communications satellite lit up the sky over Northdale.

As rocket launches go, Thursday’s deployment of a communications satellite from Cape Canaveral was nothing too unusual.

For early risers across Tampa Bay, though, it was far beyond typical.

At 6:13 a.m., United Launch Alliance launched a communications satellite for the U.S. Air Force space and missile center.

Residents across Tampa Bay didn’t have to look too carefully toward the eastern sky to see some spectacular views as the dark skies illuminated with the bright white trail left by the passenger van-sized rocket as it ascended into space.

The vivid trail caught the attention of quite a few folks across Tampa Bay who posted their views on social media – some not realizing what was causing the unusual bright light.

Our daily newsletter, delivered first thing weekdays, keeps you connected to your community with news, culture, national NPR headlines, and more.