This morning, an Atlas V rocket launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, carrying a US Navy communications satellite into space. It was another smooth take off for the United Launch Alliance, the company that manufactures the Atlas V. It was a particularly beautiful launch as well; the rocket left a spectacular multi-colored trail in its wake as it ascended into space.
The rocket lifted off around 6:18AM ET this morning, just as the Florida sun was peeking out over the horizon. According to ULA officials, the sunlight caught the rocket's plume trail just at the right angle, creating the colorful display. Numerous spectators of the launch snapped pictures of the amazing event; check them out below.
Here are a few more pictures from this morning's @ulalaunch of the #AtlasV ... #MUOS pic.twitter.com/Xlu0T6P51i
— Andrew O'Brien (@aobrien7) September 2, 2015
Evolution of #MUOS-4 #AtlasV's expanding "light plume," viewing from Titusville. #WeAreGoFL #LaunchPhoto pic.twitter.com/TExa5CP1me
— Caley (@NASA_Caley) September 2, 2015
Miss the @ulalaunch Atlas V launch this AM? Gorgeous! Check out the photos http://t.co/dleWHPbX4W @Florida_Today pic.twitter.com/IIFsg4y0JA
— Craig Bailey (@cbphoto1) September 2, 2015
That wasn't thunder this AM, Florida: An absolutely stunning #MUOS #AtlasV launch by @ulalaunch @ 6:18am.cc:@yourtake pic.twitter.com/ziywAephly
— Michael Seeley (@Mike_Seeley) September 2, 2015