新疆夜空不明飞行物是什么？揭秘来了

Core Points - The article discusses the observation of a bright object in the sky, which was identified as a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket performing a "deactivation" operation after launching satellites into orbit [1][3]. - The event occurred on May 16, when the rocket's second stage was visible over northwestern China, coinciding with sunset, making it appear nearly as bright as the moon [3][4]. - Multiple eyewitnesses across several regions in Xinjiang reported seeing the object, which appeared in a distinct shape and brightness, leading to speculation about unidentified flying objects [4]. Summary by Sections - Rocket Launch and Observation: On May 16, SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base, which later became visible in the night sky over China [3]. - Deactivation Process: After delivering satellites, the rocket's second stage undergoes a deactivation process, releasing residual fuel and gases, which can create visible phenomena under the right conditions [3]. - Eyewitness Accounts: Observers in Urumqi, Altay, and Ili reported seeing a bright object that changed shape, with descriptions noting its brightness comparable to the moon [4].