Rocket Lab launch creates space jellyfish effect over New Zealand

Wednesday 15 October 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Wed 15 Oct 2025, 8:32am

In this story Rocket Lab

Early risers in parts of New Zealand, including the Bay of Plenty, observed a phenomenon known as a "space jellyfish" on Wednesday morning. Rocket Lab confirmed the visual effect was caused by sunlight reflecting off the exhaust plume following an Electron rocket launch from the Māhia Peninsula.

How they headlined it

6:59am8:18am

1. StuffWed 15 Oct 2025, 6:59am

   Kiwis wake to ‘space jellyfish’ (opens in new tab)

2. 1NewsWed 15 Oct 2025, 8:18am

   'Space jellyfish' from Rocket Lab launch intrigues (opens in new tab)

3. RNZWed 15 Oct 2025, 8:32am

   'Space jellyfish' seen in Bay of Plenty after Rocket Lab launch (opens in new tab)