Residents in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey were treated to a spectacular sight as a bright streak of light moved across the sky. This phenomenon, which might have sparked alien theories in the past, can now be attributed to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite system.

Late on Friday night, SpaceX launched 22 satellites from Cape Canaveral, Florida to join the thousands of others already in low earth orbit. The satellites were seen over New Jersey’s night sky on Saturday at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Numerous people took to social media to share their experiences and pictures of the “strange string of lights” passing overhead. Each Starlink satellite weighs 573 pounds and is nine feet long and 26 feet wide.

The satellites that were witnessed belong to the Group 6-16 launch, and their visibility varied depending on location and atmospheric conditions. Interested individuals can use the website findstarlink.com to track future sightings and get information on recent passes in their area.

The Starlink satellite system was developed by SpaceX with the goal of providing internet access to remote areas around the globe. It aims to bridge the digital divide by bringing connectivity to regions that previously lacked access.

As more satellites are deployed, events like this are likely to become increasingly common. While some find these sightings fascinating, others have raised concerns about the impact of large satellite constellations on astronomy and light pollution.

Overall, the illuminated display in New Jersey serves as a reminder of the advancements in technology that are reshaping our world and the night sky we gaze upon.