© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Stargazers in Alaska recently saw a rare sight while checking out the Northern Lights

LEILA FADEL, HOST:

Good morning. I'm Leila Fadel. Stargazers in Alaska saw a rare sight while checking out the northern lights this weekend - a ghostly light-blue swirl in the sky. Researchers at the University of Alaska Fairbanks say it was excess fuel expelled from a SpaceX rocket that took off from California Friday night. That fuel turned into ice in the atmosphere and reflected light from the sun. So it wasn't a wormhole to an alien galaxy, which is either a big disappointment or a big relief. It's MORNING EDITION. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.

Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.