Rocket Launch Viewing

Last night we sat outside to wait for a rocket launch out of Vandenberg Air Force Base. Everyone in out little corner of the neighborhood was outside watching. The launch window as between 7 pm and 9 pm, so we headed out just before 7 pm. They later changed it to between 8:20 and 8:40 and it lifted off at 8:33. We saw the light from the rocket as it streaked across the sky. There was a marine layer moving in the direction the rocket was traveling, so we lost track of it pretty quickly. We did sight it again just before the first stage separation. It was really cool to see the rocket separate! You could see a big flare and then a smaller light continuing to move up. It was really nice outside and the adults had a great time sitting around talking while we were waiting for the lift off. The kids had a blast playing with each other too. You can read all about the launch here.