[Launch Alert] Falcon 9 Launch Successful

[Launch Alert]

A Falcon 9 rocket carrying 10 Iridium Next communications satellites was successfully launched this morning from Vandenberg AFB, Calif. www.spaceflightnow.com reports the satellites were delivered into orbit and "are alive and transmitting signals..."

I and several other aerospace enthusiasts observed the launch from a high bluff west of Newbury Park near Portrero Road in Ventura County. The orange flame from the first stage and contrail were easily visible to the unaided eye. Using tripod-mounted 10x50 binoculars, I could clearly see the rocket's shape and shock diamonds in the flame. As the Falcon 9 gained altitude, the binoculars showed an expanding, tenuous exhaust plume. Following stage 1/2 separation, the shapes of both stages and the widening gap between the stages were visible through the binoculars.

I attempted to track the first stage following separation in hopes of seeing re-ignition of the engines for the soft-landing. Unfortunately, shortly after staging, my binoculars suddenly unlocked and pitched up. I attempted to reacquire the first stage through the binoculars, but was unsuccessful.

Brian Webb