A unique light display lit up the night sky over several U. S. states recently. This event was not a natural phenomenon but the result of a Chinese rocket releasing experimental fuel. The rocket, named Zhuque-2E, launched from northwest China and deployed six satellites. After completing its mission, the rocket dumped its remaining fuel before re-entering Earth's atmosphere.

The fuel dump occurred at an altitude of about 155 miles. The fuel froze into tiny crystals, reflecting sunlight and creating a bright streak visible from at least seven states. This streak lasted for about 10 minutes before fading away. The event took place around 1:24 a. m. ET on May 17.

Many people mistook the light for an aurora or the phenomenon known as STEVE. However, experts later identified it as the result of the rocket's fuel dump. The light show was particularly striking because it happened during a geomagnetic storm, with auroras visible as far south as New Mexico.

Photographers captured stunning images of the event. Mike Lewinski, for example, took timelapse footage from Crestone, Colorado. Meanwhile, Jay Shaffer captured a long-exposure photo in Taos County, New Mexico. These images provide a clear view of the luminous streak against the night sky.

The Zhuque-2E rocket is notable for its use of a special fuel mixture. Unlike most rockets, which use hydrogen or kerosene, the Zhuque-2E uses a combination of liquid oxygen and liquid methane, known as "methalox. " This fuel type is considered more environmentally friendly and efficient. China has successfully launched four methane-powered rockets into space, with the Zhuque-2E being the latest.

The event raises questions about the impact of rocket fuel dumps on the environment. While the light show was spectacular, it highlights the need for further research into the effects of such fuel dumps. As space exploration continues to advance, it is crucial to consider the environmental consequences of our actions.

The Zhuque-2E rocket is a single-use orbital launch vehicle. It can carry up to 13, 200 pounds of payload into low-Earth orbit. This region of space is where most Earth-orbiting satellites operate. The rocket's success marks another milestone in China's space exploration efforts.

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