Classification of gas-dust formations from rocket exhaust in the upper atmosphere

The results of research into the optical phenomena produced by rocket exhaust products in the upper atmosphere are presented. The data were obtained during routine observations of auroras by all-sky cameras from 1975 to 1990 from the Kola peninsula and Arckchangelsk region. The observed rocket launches were carried out from the Plesetsk and White Sea launch sites during both nighttime and twilight periods. The observed phenomena can be divided into two main types: local phenomena with long development times and relatively short-lived large-scale ones. The characteristic properties of both types are determined, in the first instance, by the type of rocket engines used (solid or liquid propellant) and their operating mode. The most intense, large-scale and dynamic phenomena are caused by separation of rocket stages and shutoff of solid-fuel rocket engines.