On October 28, 2025, people in Harnai, Balochistan, saw spiral trails and glowing plumes across the sky around 5:30 am. Clips and photos of the strange occurrence soon flooded social media, and rampant speculation followed.

Several people on X alleged the trails were proof of a Pakistani missile test by the military, with some going so far as to propose the employment of hypersonic technology. Witnesses ranging from Quetta to central Punjab described the streaks as similar to the clear separation patterns observed in ballistic missile tests.

Despite all the commotion, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has not made any official response confirming or refuting a missile test, adding more mystery.

In the afternoon, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had a different explanation, tweeting on X that a lenticular cloud formation had been seen over Koh-e-Murdaar, east of Quetta.

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Meteorologists explain that such lens-like clouds are created when moist air is lifted over mountains, producing smooth, saucer-shaped clouds that usually display brilliant colours at sunrise — sometimes confused with UFOs or rocket trails.

Though the PMD's explanation dispelled guesswork, the drama mesmerized Pakistanis, with people hailing it as one of the most stunning sunset vistas witnessed in years.