Message posted by Peter Merlin on September 24, 2010 at 9:50:18 PST:
SLC-8 is not visible from anywhere outside of Vandenberg. It is just south of SLC-6 which is behind some hills. The launch, however, will be visible from anywhere in Southern California. I have even seen spectacular photos of a Minotaur launch that were taken from Phoenix, Arizona. One of the most popular viewing sites closer to Vandenberg is at the top of Harris Grade Road which starts as an extension of North H Street in Lompoc after it crosses the intersection of Highways 1 and 246. It is a straight shot at first, but as the road begins to climb a steep hill about 2.5 miles north of Burton Mesa Boulevard, it twists and turns into a series of dangerous blind curves. The first of several turnouts is another half-mile and offers spectacular views of the Lompoc Valley and Vandenberg Air Force Base. Another good vantage spot is near the FAA station on East El Camino Cielo, off Highway 154 above Santa Barbara. It is further away than Harris Grade Road, however.
In Reply to: OT: VAFB Minotaur Launch posted by Gerry on September 24, 2010 at 9:25:39 PST:
Replies: