FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] Titan IV Launch from VAFB

[Christopher Watson <skygx@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

From a high bluff in Carlsbad, CA, with unobstructed NW view of the coast, I 
watched the launch of the last of the Titan IV vehicles from Vandeberg AFB this 
morning.  The first evidence of a exhaust plume was seen at 11:04:55, as it 
climbed above the light cloud bank hugging the coast.  Nothing but grey-white 
smoke against a light blue sky.  I saw the trail quickly extending toward the 
WSW, with no hint of any flame point.  At about 11:06:25 I saw a burst of 
yellow-orange light at the tip of the exhaust trail which lasted about 3 
seconds.  Probably a stage burnout and separation.  After that, no further 
flame detections, and the trail quickly became too difficult to detect against 
the bright sky.  After about 11:08, there was no telling a rocket had launched. 
 This was my first day launch observation.  All my others have been duck or 
night launches.  I'd have to say that the presence of the Sun creates a very 
underwhelming experience.

Christopher Watson
Carlsbad, CA
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