Claim: this is a photo of a rocket launch as seen from space.

This photograph shows the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on September 9, 2006. It was not photographed from space, but from a high-altitude aircraft – NASA WB-57. This aircraft can operate in excess of 60,000 feet (18 km). However, this photo was likely taken at a lower altitude.

Original photo below for comparison. The viral picture has been blurred and tilt-shifted.

Photo credit: NASA

See also: Hoax of Fame blog.