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Korolev Cross

Korolev Cross
Korolev Cross The Korolev Cross is a stunning visual pattern observable from the ground when a Russian Soyuz rocket jettisons its side boosters. As all 4 boosters separate, they initially tumble at the same rate, getting caught in the backwash of the rocket's center engine. The effect is named after famed Soviet rocket designer Sergei Korolev, who designed Russia's launch vehicles during the 1960s Space Race. Roscosmos / ESA