Star Report
Team Vandenberg is scheduled to launch the WorldView-4 satellite on an Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex-3 on Friday, Nov. 11, with a launch window opening at 10:30 a.m. PDT.
The rocket, a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 provided by Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services, has a four meter fairing to safely hold the satellite as it accelerates to 17,000 miles per hour during launch. The 30th Space Wing at Vandenberg Air Force Base is responsible for range safety and launch operations. Col. Chris Moss, 30th Space Wing commander, will be the launch decision authority.
“Team V is thrilled to be launching again following the devastating wildfires we experienced in September. We are excited to launch the Atlas V WorldView-4 mission from Vandenberg’s Western Range and are looking forward to a safe and successful mission,” said Moss.
WorldView-4 is the latest in a series of imaging and data satellites built by Lockheed Martin for customers around the world. The satellite is outfitted with cutting-edge star trackers that enable extremely precise pointing for its imaging system, which is so advanced it can discern the make of a car from its orbit in space.
The local community can view this launch from the Hawk’s Nest on Highway 1 just a half mile south of Vandenberg Air Force Base’s main gate.
