[Launch Alert] Atlas-V FUEL DUMP VISIBLE TONIGHT

[Launch Alert]

Good Evening:
 
The following item was sent to me by Launch Alert contributor Rick B. in northern California. This event is well worth looking for.
 
For observers in California, look about 45 degrees above the horizon between the south and southeast
 
Sorry about the short notice.
 
Regards,
 
Brian Webb
 
 
A RARE occurrence!
 
The Atlas-V launch today will allow the CENTAUR upper-stage to make a visible fuel dump tonight -- looking like a bright comet for about 10 minutes or so!
 
TIME -- 6:11pm PST  (plus or minus).   The Sun will be about 10 degrees down -- should be dark enough.
 
LOCATION -- for the Bay Area, just west of ORION -- (see charts).
 
Weather looks GOOD!   Get your cameras and binoculars out!!!
 
Best of Luck!
 
Rick B.