Over the weekend, Norwegians were captivated by a mysterious string of lights streaking across the night sky.

Observers from various parts of the country reported seeing what appeared to be a "train of stars" moving in a straight line.

The phenomenon was later identified as a group of Starshield satellites launched by SpaceX on Friday morning from California.

These satellites, part of a U.

S. government surveillance program, are designed to orbit the Earth in a polar trajectory, making them highly visible from Norway.

The launch marked SpaceX's 450th mission with its Falcon 9 rocket.

While some initially mistook the lights for UFOs, experts clarified that the satellites were temporarily aligned before dispersing into their designated orbits.

Clear skies also provided an opportunity for stargazers to enjoy the northern lights, adding to the celestial spectacle.