The other reason I’m leaning away from flares is that each one took a good 30 (or more) seconds to disappear and though they were fading in intensity, they did not appear to be slowing down.
I have seen (from here) a large rocket from Wallops with satellite on board and was able to see a stage separation (pretty cool). I’m thinking these may have been atmospheric test rockets (perhaps?)
A couple of weeks ago I saw the launch from Edwards AFB of the rocket that didn’t get that secret payload into orbit.
I was 80 miles to the East. WOW, When the stages separated
it was spectacular.
I fished on the Bay for years and saw one lift off. You are probably right about an atmospheric research data rocket.
Clear skies and good viewing to ya!!