[Launch Alert] Minuteman III Scheduled to Launch

[Launch Alert]

The following is a news release from Vandenberg AFB:

MINUTEMAN III SCHEDULED TO LAUNCH
By 30th Space Wing Public Affairs
April 21, 2017

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled for Wednesday, April. 26, between 12:01 p.m. to 6:01 a.m. from north Vandenberg Air Force Base.
 
The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness, and accuracy of the weapon system, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.
 
Col. John Moss, 30th Space Wing commander, is the launch decision authority.
 
"Team V is once again ready to work with Air Force Global Strike Command to successfully launch another Minuteman III missile," said Moss. "These Minuteman launches are essential to verify the status of our national nuclear force and to demonstrate our national nuclear capabilities. We are proud of our long history in partnering with the men and women of the 576th Flight Test Squadron to execute these missions for the nation."
 
The 576th Flight Test Squadron will be responsible for installed tracking, telemetry, and command destruct systems on the missile.

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MINUTEMAN LAUNCH VISIBILITY
by Brian Webb

Liftoff is probably scheduled for the start of the launch window and the Minuteman will likely head west from Vandenberg.

If the sky is clear, the launch should be easy to see in Santa Barbara County. Observers with unobstructed horizons, dark skies, and who know exactly where to look may be able to see the event from as far away as San Francisco, Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, Big Bear, and San Diego.

The launch should be visible to the unaided eye, but for the best view, use tripod-mounted binoculars, a spotting scope, or an astronomical telescope.