[AZ-Observing] Titan IV Launch from VAFB
- From: Christopher Watson <skygx@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: AZ-Observing <az-observing@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Wed, 19 Oct 2005 11:22:58 -0700 (GMT-07:00)
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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