A SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Cape Canaveral created a glowing “space jellyfish” across the dawn sky on October 13.

The effect formed when the rocket’s expanding exhaust plume climbed into sunlight high above Earth while observers below were still in darker early-morning conditions.

The launch was the CRS-35 cargo mission to the International Space Station, carrying more than 6,300 pounds of science experiments, supplies and station hardware.

The Falcon 9 first-stage booster later returned to Landing Zone 40, while Cargo Dragon continued toward the station.

Early-morning and evening Florida launches can sometimes produce the same dramatic jellyfish effect when lighting and atmospheric conditions line up.

Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7, giving Bay County residents time to review coverage and make changes for 2027.

Beneficiaries can switch Medicare Advantage plans, move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or join, drop or change Part D drug coverage when eligible.

Before choosing a plan, compare doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, pharmacies, premiums, deductibles, copays and maximum out-of-pocket costs.

Bay County residents can also get free, unbiased Medicare counseling through Florida's SHINE program and the Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging.

Changes made during Open Enrollment take effect January 1, 2027, so starting the review early can make the decision less stressful.

Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally returns to Panama City Beach October 21–25 with five days of custom bikes, live music, vendors, motorcycle shows and rally events.

Frank Brown Park anchors daytime activities with the Vendor Village, Iron & Chrome Collective Museum on Wheels, bike shows and live music.

Crossroads hosts major custom-bike and motorcycle-audio competitions, while The Bike Rack adds stunt sessions, biker games, contests and bands.

McGuire’s Irish Pub, Hammerhead Fred’s, Sharky’s Beachfront and Harley-Davidson PCB round out the official and partner venue lineup.

Because events overlap across Panama City Beach, checking the daily Thunder Beach schedule before heading out is the easiest way to plan the weekend.

When fall arrives in Panama City, Thursday nights mean live music by the bay. Backstage Pass, one of Panama City’s longest-running concert traditions, returns in 2026 with six consecutive weeks of free outdoor concerts at the Marina Lawn in Downtown Panama City.

Presented by the Bay Arts Alliance, the 2026 series begins Thursday, September 17 and runs every Thursday through October 22. Concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. and continue until approximately 9:00 p.m. Admission is completely free.

When and Where

Dates: Thursdays, September 17–October 22, 2026
Time: 7:00–9:00 p.m.
Location: Marina Lawn, 7 Harrison Avenue, Downtown Panama City

Admission: FREE