[Launch Alert] Falcon 9 Launched

[Launch Alert]

A Falcon 9 rocket was successfully launched this morning (January 31) from Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. The vehicle lifted off from south base at 08:15 PST and apparently flew towards the southeast as it carried 49 Starlink Internet satellites and an Italian rideshare payload into orbit.

A few minutes after launch, Bob B. sent the following report to the editor:

"Just had to send you a note about the launch from Vandenberg that took place 5 minutes ago. In all the years that I've observed launches from my street between Santa Barbara and Goleta, this was easily the clearest,most vibrant view of the rocket (through binocs) that I’ve ever seen. I credit that to the crisp, clear winter air and side lighting from an early morning sun. The shock waves haven’t hit here just yet but should occur any moment. Just WOW!!"