'Incredible': SpaceX rocket spotted off Christmas Island coast

A SpaceX rocket from a Texas test flight was sighted being towed off the coast of Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean on 24 July. The 52‑metre vehicle was recovered from the ocean after the launch had taken place in Texas.

David Watchorn, chair of the Christmas Island Tourism Association, initially mistook the sight for ships in his morning commute. He later realised he was observing a space rocket, which had been towed back to shore by local authorities.

The rocket’s unexpected appearance caused a stir among residents, some of whom left work early to view it. Others organised their boats to approach the structure for a closer look at what was left on the ground.

Watchorn told the BBC: "It’s really incredible to think about what it’s been through." He added, "The more and more you look at it, the more fascinating it becomes."