Well done Joe and thanks for sharing
I see those flares you are talking about between the diffraction spikes. They are mostly in the same/similar location each time. I would look for something reflective up in the top end of the scope or failing that, perhaps there was some stray light from nearby street,etc.. picked up on or around the secondary mirror support or if it is an open truss design reflected from the truss tubes upwards ( Ihave seen some silver coloured truss tubes so maybe this is possible). Perhaps try and recall your exact location and orientation of the scope to see if that is feasible as a reflection.
Best
JA