[Launch Alert] Atlas V Launch Scheduled

[Launch Alert]

The following is a press advisory from Vandenberg AFB:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
From: 30th Space Wing Public Affairs, www.vandenberg.af.mil

ATLAS V LAUNCH SCHEDULED

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. - Team Vandenberg is scheduled to launch
the WorldView-4 satellite on an Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex-3
here Friday, Sept. 16, with a launch window opening at 11:30 a.m. PDT. 

The rocket, a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 provided by
Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services, has a four meter fairing to
safely hold the satellite as it accelerates to 17,000 miles per hour during
launch - more than seven times faster than the top speed clocked by the
SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest jet plane ever.

The 30th Space Wing at Vandenberg Air Force Base is responsible for range
safety and launch operations.

Col. Chris Moss, 30th Space Wing commander, will be the launch
decision authority.

"Team V is excited to launch the Atlas V WorldView-4 mission from
Vandenberg's Western Range.  The combined 30th Space Wing and United Launch
Alliance team has spent months preparing to ensure this launch is both safe
and successful.  We have a very strong partnership with ULA and we're proud
to have teamed with them on this fantastic mission," said Moss.

WorldView-4 is the latest in a series of imaging and data
satellites built by Lockheed Martin for customers around the world. The
satellite is outfitted with cutting-edge star trackers that enable extremely
precise pointing for its imaging system, which is so advanced it can discern
the make of a car from its orbit in space.

The local community can view this launch from the Hawk's Nest on
Hwy 1 just a half mile south of Vandenberg Air Force Base's main gate.