[Launch Alert] Tuesday - Wednesday Launch

[Launch Alert]

The following is an advisory from Vandenberg SFB:

"VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. - An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled between 11:01 p.m. to 5:01 a.m. Pacific Time, Mar. 3 to Mar. 4, from north Vandenberg.

The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system, according to AFGSC.

This test is routine and was scheduled years in advance."

Weather permitting, the launch could be visible to the unaided eye over a wide area. Launch viewing will probably be hampered in outlying areas by the nearly full Moon.

For a better view of the launch, use tripod-mounted binoculars or a spotting scope. An astronomical telescope with a low-power eyepiece will probably provide the best view of all.

Countdown and launch status will probably not be available to the general public.

This information is subject to change.