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A SpaceX rocket has made an unexpected appearance off Christmas Island after touching down in the Indian Ocean following a test flight from Texas on 24 July.

David Watchorn, chair of the Christmas Island Tourism Association said he initially thought he was looking at ships on his way to work, before realising it was "a rocket, a space rocket" being towed.

The 52-metre long rocket has caused a stir among locals, with some "sneaking out" of work for a glimpse, and others preparing their boats for a closer look at the debris.

"It's really incredible to think about what it's been through," Watchorn told the BBC.

"The more and more you look at it, the more fascinating it's becoming".

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