As seen on this video posted by Elon Musk
https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1154629726914220032?s=19
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1$\begingroup$ Can you update your question and include a still image of what you are asking about? Not everyone will take the time to go to twitter and watch a video. $\endgroup$– Organic MarbleCommented Jul 26, 2019 at 14:25
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1$\begingroup$ ah yeah great idea. Doing that now $\endgroup$– StickyzCommented Jul 26, 2019 at 14:26
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1 Answer
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That's a shock diamond. Commonly seen in jet and rocket exhaust.
There's a good explanation of the physics behind the diamonds here. Short summary: If the pressure at the exit of the engine doesn't match the ambient pressure, then shock waves will form and reflect throughout the plume, causing the diamond patterns.
answered Jul 26, 2019 at 14:40
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$\begingroup$ Awesome! thank you, does the Merlin produce these as well? 45 raptors at once is going to be quite pretty $\endgroup$– StickyzCommented Jul 26, 2019 at 14:43
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1$\begingroup$ It probably does - I'm not very familiar with Merlins - but since it uses kerosene as fuel the exhaust is a lot "yellower" and not as transparent, so it's harder to see them. $\endgroup$ Commented Jul 26, 2019 at 14:45