Author Topic: SpaceX Falcon 9 - Vandenberg - Launch Viewing (Read 79421 times)

ChrisC · « **on:** 01/09/2017 06:27 pm »

Up to now, we've had viewing threads for each Vandenberg launch, but since a lot of the info is the same each time, we're going to start a thread for viewing of VAFB launches in general.

To start, here is the viewing thread for the launch of Jason-3 in Jan 2016:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=39176.0

And here's the viewing thread for the launch of CASSIOPE in Sept 2013:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=32534.0

Finally, here's an EXCELLENT reference for VAFB launch viewing, similar to Ben Cooper's writeup for the eastern range launches, which I am constantly pointing people to:
http://www.spacearchive.info/vafbview.htm

As I get time, I'll copy important facts / references out of the posts below (and the earlier threads) and edit them into this first post. But for now even just reading through the above links (especially the last one) should answer all the obvious questions.

EDIT: I have also collected some links about the Long Beach berthing location, including some webcam links:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=42052.msg1630947#msg1630947

SeriousCallersOnly · « **Reply #1 on:** 01/11/2017 08:45 pm »

I watched Jason 3 (as I recall) launch from Providence Landing Park. It was a great spot and filled with fanatical SpaceX employees.

Here's the address:

699 Mercury Avenue, Lompoc, CA 93436

and a link to google maps:

Mercury Ave, Lompoc, CA

Edit/Lar: fix long link

dglow · « **Reply #2 on:** 01/11/2017 09:16 pm »

As has been stated before, a dream viewing location would be the Amtrak parking lot at the end of Ocean Ave. <sigh>

Can someone recall the exact spot where Ocean is closed on launch days... is it the Arguello intersection?

Sam Ho · « **Reply #3 on:** 01/11/2017 09:25 pm »

Quote from: SeriousCallersOnly on 01/11/2017 08:45 pm

I watched Jason 3 (as I recall) launch from Providence Landing Park. It was a great spot and filled with fanatical SpaceX employees. Here's the address:

699 Mercury Avenue, Lompoc, CA 93436

and a link to google maps:

Please shorten the Google link, as below: Google can find it without the rest of the link, and the long link messes up the forum formatting.

https://www.google.com/maps/place/699+Mercury+Ave,+Lompoc,+CA+93436/

Lar · « **Reply #4 on:** 01/11/2017 09:57 pm »

Quote from: Sam Ho on 01/11/2017 09:25 pm

Quote from: SeriousCallersOnly on 01/11/2017 08:45 pm

I watched Jason 3 (as I recall) launch from Providence Landing Park. It was a great spot and filled with fanatical SpaceX employees. Here's the address:

699 Mercury Avenue, Lompoc, CA 93436

and a link to google maps:

Please shorten the Google link, as below: Google can find it without the rest of the link, and the long link messes up the forum formatting.

https://www.google.com/maps/place/699+Mercury+Ave,+Lompoc,+CA+93436/

Or, alternatively, leave the link long but use the URL tag, like this (change {} to [] )

{url=https://insanely.long.link.com/super/cool/but/pedantic/and/verbose/link/crazy.js?someParm=Lar}short form{/url}

which will appear like this
short form

PS: I shortened his link

catdlr · « **Reply #5 on:** 01/12/2017 03:28 am »

Quote from: dglow on 01/11/2017 09:16 pm

As has been stated before, a dream viewing location would be the Amtrak parking lot at the end of Ocean Ave. <sigh>

Can someone recall the exact spot where Ocean is closed on launch days... is it the Arguello intersection?

That's a great location. I watched the IRAS launch from the Delta IIpad by the airport in 1983. Seems like the LV trajectory was almost overhead, quite loud and spectacular for an evening launch. Oh.. those days.

nukie19 · « **Reply #6 on:** 01/13/2017 02:35 pm »

Quote from: dglow on 01/11/2017 09:16 pm

As has been stated before, a dream viewing location would be the Amtrak parking lot at the end of Ocean Ave. <sigh>

Can someone recall the exact spot where Ocean is closed on launch days... is it the Arguello intersection?

Just past the Arguello intersection.

SeriousCallersOnly · « **Reply #7 on:** 01/14/2017 02:22 pm »

I decided to try this spot:

https://goo.gl/maps/qceYVPTUbHU2

Will post a report later on how I like it.

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #8 on:** 01/14/2017 07:00 pm »

The 30th Space Wing posted this image on Facebook. Which location is this? That looks like an amazing view!

nukie19 · « **Reply #9 on:** 01/14/2017 08:19 pm »

Pretty sure that is on-base on the road down to Surf Beach (35th Street).

catdlr · « **Reply #10 on:** 01/14/2017 10:41 pm »

Quote from: nukie19 on 01/14/2017 08:19 pm

Pretty sure that is on-base on the road down to Surf Beach (35th Street).

That's west across the mouth of the Santa Ynez River river on the hills side near 35th and Taco.

SeriousCallersOnly · « **Reply #11 on:** 01/14/2017 11:20 pm »

Quote from: catdlr on 01/14/2017 10:41 pm

That's west across the mouth of the Santa Ynez River river on the hills side near 35th and Taco.

Wait, so does that mean this location is accessible to the general public?

dglow · « **Reply #12 on:** 01/14/2017 11:23 pm »

Nope, it's on-base.

SeriousCallersOnly · « **Reply #13 on:** 01/14/2017 11:30 pm »

I like this location for the views and definitely if there was fog it would be a good spot to watch from. I think next time I will either try Santa Ynez Peak or go back to Providence Landing park. Has anyone on here watched from Santa Ynez Peak? Is it high enough to see the launch pad? All in all it was a good experience. With my 12x50 binoculars I could follow the launch all the way through first stage separation and see a few of the burns as the first stage decelerated before I lost it. Could also see the first stage falling behind the second stage after separation. Well worth the 8 hr R/T drive!

Quote from: SeriousCallersOnly on 01/14/2017 02:22 pm

I decided to try this spot:

https://goo.gl/maps/qceYVPTUbHU2

Will post a report later on how I like it.

catdlr · « **Reply #14 on:** 02/02/2017 11:37 pm »

Here is a view of the launch viewed 4.1 miles from the pad on Renwick Ave., Lompoc, CA.

FALCON LAUNCH FOLLOW UP

Last month, SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket carrying several Iridium
Next communications satellites from Vandenberg AFB.

Veteran launch watcher Rick Baldridge posted an interesting video of
the launch online. To see it, go to:

Meanwhile, Craig N. provided the following observation of the launch:

"I viewed the launch on a beach outside the Rudder Room in Channel
Islands/Oxnard. You can have a cold one while watching. I too saw the
orange flames from Goleta Point up until first stage burnout."

SaturnVF1 · « **Reply #15 on:** 05/21/2017 10:05 am »

So the Surf Beach station is always closed for SpaceX launches?

That would be such a great place. I tried to watch the Jan 2016 launch from there but got kicked out in the middle of the night. I did see the early morning Delta 4 launch the next month from there, with a bunch of Rocketdyne employees.

Are there any good spots further south near the eastern edge of the base?

nukie19 · « **Reply #16 on:** 06/23/2017 02:49 pm »

Quote from: SaturnVF1 on 05/21/2017 10:05 am

So the Surf Beach station is always closed for SpaceX launches?

That would be such a great place. I tried to watch the Jan 2016 launch from there but got kicked out in the middle of the night. I did see the early morning Delta 4 launch the next month from there, with a bunch of Rocketdyne employees.

Are there any good spots further south near the eastern edge of the base?

Yes to Surf being closed.
No to good spots further south.

Most of the best places for the public and already listed here.

gongora · « **Reply #17 on:** 08/19/2017 05:29 pm »

This has some tips for Vandenberg viewing (and a restaurant recommendation for those in the area):
Viewing SpaceX launches at Vandenberg AFB

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #18 on:** 08/21/2017 05:50 am »

My golden rule for the Formosat-5 launch viewers.

Don't be that guy who brings a drone to try and get a view of the pad. The @WaywardDrone Twitter account was nearly created during the Iridium 2 launch.

SeriousCallersOnly · « **Reply #19 on:** 10/09/2017 12:07 pm »

My first night launch.

Joffan · « **Reply #20 on:** 10/16/2017 04:15 pm »

Quote from: SeriousCallersOnly on 10/09/2017 12:07 pm

My first night launch.

Trying to work out what we are looking at there - modern cameras have amazing dynamic range...

SeriousCallersOnly · « **Reply #21 on:** 10/16/2017 04:43 pm »

I took that long exposure shot while I was waiting around for the launch. It's just to show the location. Sorry for any confusion.

catdlr · « **Reply #22 on:** 12/21/2017 07:10 pm »

LAUNCH ALERT

Brian Webb
[email protected]
www.spacearchive.info

2017 December 21 (Thursday) 09:58 PST

FRIDAY LAUNCH VISIBILITY

Friday evening's launch of a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg AFB
appears to be on schedule. The vehicle is slated to lift off from
south base at 17:27:23 PST and carry several Iridium NEXT commercial
communications satellites into orbit.

Following liftoff, the vehicle will climb vertically for several
before it begins a gradual turn and heads south.

The rocket's bright flame should be visible over a wide area. However,
since this launch occurs 30 minutes after Vandenberg AFB sunset, it
could be impressive beginning at T+ 2 minutes 12 seconds when
simulations show the exhaust plume will be illuminated at high
altitude by the sun.

david1971 · « **Reply #23 on:** 02/12/2018 08:03 pm »

If the Paz launches on time, it will go up at 6:14AM local. What is the weather/visibility situation typically like at Vandeberg in the mornings? Is it likely I'll get a good view, or is it more likely that I'll hear it more than I see it?

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #24 on:** 02/12/2018 08:52 pm »

Quote from: david1971 on 02/12/2018 08:03 pm

If the Paz launches on time, it will go up at 6:14AM local. What is the weather/visibility situation typically like at Vandeberg in the mornings? Is it likely I'll get a good view, or is it more likely that I'll hear it more than I see it?

During the summer, morning launches are usually a hear not see. This time of year you might be ok.

Jdeshetler · « **Reply #25 on:** 02/12/2018 10:54 pm »

Looks like like the PAZ launch time is at the edge of first ray of light, the dawn.

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #26 on:** 02/17/2018 12:21 am »

Quote from: Michael Baylor on 02/12/2018 08:52 pm

Quote from: david1971 on 02/12/2018 08:03 pm
If the Paz launches on time, it will go up at 6:14AM local. What is the weather/visibility situation typically like at Vandeberg in the mornings? Is it likely I'll get a good view, or is it more likely that I'll hear it more than I see it?
During the summer, morning launches are usually a hear not see. This time of year you might be ok.

Fog is in the forecast. Ignore what I said.

ajsherm · « **Reply #27 on:** 03/25/2018 04:23 pm »

Newbie here! Want to drive up from LA to watch the 5 May 2018 launch. Fingers crossed its not scrubbed! At that time of morning, 04:05, Im sure the coastal fog will be heavy. From what Ive found, it seems the most recommended viewing site for SLC-3E would then be Harris Road. Is that accurate? Or do any of the seasoned vets here have any other recommendations? Thanks guys!

Don S · « **Reply #28 on:** 03/28/2018 02:37 am »

I thought it would be fun to go Fishing in the Chanel Islands to watch downrange from there for Thursday (3/29/18) Morning. But now it has been postponed to Friday.

Are there any thoughts if that would be a good viewing area?

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #29 on:** 03/28/2018 03:08 am »

Quote from: ajsherm on 03/25/2018 04:23 pm

Newbie here! Want to drive up from LA to watch the 5 May 2018 launch. Fingers crossed its not scrubbed! At that time of morning, 04:05, Im sure the coastal fog will be heavy. From what Ive found, it seems the most recommended viewing site for SLC-3E would then be Harris Road. Is that accurate? Or do any of the seasoned vets here have any other recommendations? Thanks guys!

I've never watched from Harris Road myself. It might have a partial view of the pad, but I am not entirely sure.

The easiest and closest view location is Ocean Avenue. However, a hill will obstruct the view of the launch site so you will miss the first few seconds of flight. After that, the view is excellent assuming there is no fog. Morning launches are always risky so check the weather ahead of time.

Quote from: Don S on 03/28/2018 02:37 am

I thought it would be fun to go Fishing in the Chanel Islands to watch downrange from there for Thursday (3/29/18) Morning. But now it has been postponed to Friday.

Are there any thoughts if that would be a good viewing area?

It could be very interesting. Especially if they execute the reentry and landing burns. It would be a risk, but bring a camera in case it pays off so we can see what it's like.

Roy_H · « **Reply #30 on:** 05/19/2018 04:04 pm »

I've decided to view the Grace/Iridium launch from 699 Mercury, Vandenberg Village on Tuesday. This is the local community center Park and Pool. Hope to see some of you there.

AstroBrewer · « **Reply #31 on:** 09/29/2018 02:41 am »

I'll be in LA next weekend and I'm going to head up to Lompoc for the SAOCOM 1a launch on Saturday 10/6. Anyone else going up for that? Reading this launch viewing thread I was thinking about maybe trying to get to Renwick Ave if possible. Any advice on where to watch from is appreciated.

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #32 on:** 09/29/2018 03:23 am »

Quote from: AstroBrewer on 09/29/2018 02:41 am

I'll be in LA next weekend and I'm going to head up to Lompoc for the SAOCOM 1a launch on Saturday 10/6. Anyone else going up for that? Reading this launch viewing thread I was thinking about maybe trying to get to Renwick Ave if possible. Any advice on where to watch from is appreciated.

Ocean Ave is your best bet which is connected to Renwick. Get there an hour or two early as there will be big crowds.

AstroBrewer · « **Reply #33 on:** 09/29/2018 07:22 pm »

Quote from: Michael Baylor on 09/29/2018 03:23 am

Ocean Ave is your best bet which is connected to Renwick. Get there an hour or two early as there will be big crowds.

Thanks. I'll shoot for two hours early.

DaveJes1979 · « **Reply #34 on:** 10/07/2018 10:13 pm »

Do we know that Ocean Ave will be open as usual up to the south gate?

Brovane · « **Reply #35 on:** 10/08/2018 12:45 am »

I am here and they closed Ocean at Union Sugar avenue.

DaveJes1979 · « **Reply #36 on:** 10/10/2018 10:19 pm »

I watched the launch from the Union Sugar roadblock on Ocean Avenue. This is 4.5 miles from the Falcon 9 pad. In the past, I've watched from the South Base Gate which is a bit further down Ocean Avenue, about 3.88 miles from the pad.

I guess they were taking extra precaution due to the booster landing. I hope they don't do that indefinitely for all future launch/RTLS landings.

The crowds were huge, it took about an hour until the line of cars even started moving. And even then it was pretty slow going, as I headed back to Highway 1.

The Ocean Avenue locations are by far the closest locations the public can get to the pads. However, since it is essentially at sea level, low-level fog can completely wipe out your visibility. For this launch, however, the weather cooperated and it was crystal clear. The only thing we couldn't see were the first seconds of launch and last seconds of landing, as the hills do block a direct view of the pads.

From this distance, the sonic boom was surprisingly loud, at least compared to what I remember of the shuttle's sonic booms.

whitelancer64 · « **Reply #37 on:** 10/10/2018 11:18 pm »

I was there! Just down the road from Union Sugar, near the intersection of Artesia and Ocean.

It. Was. AMAZING.

And there was a ton of people there. Thousands of people. Lots of little kids, too, which is very good. Way, Way more people I thought would be there. Cars packed on both sides of the roads for miles around. It was nuts. I was closer to the exit and it still took us half an hour to get out

DaveJes1979 · « **Reply #38 on:** 06/12/2019 04:42 pm »

Did anyone go to see RADARSAT launch in person? Looks like it was totally fogged in.

Helodriver · « **Reply #39 on:** 06/13/2020 10:20 am »

I did, but I moved some 15 miles inland to avoid the advancing marine layer. Shot a daytime streak of launch and return.

Jansen · « **Reply #40 on:** 11/19/2020 07:06 am »

Quote

In compliance with COVID-19 restrictions, the normal public viewing area on Azalea Lane off of Hwy 1 just a half mile south of Vandenberg Air Force Base's main gate will not be open to the public.

= The Hawk's Nest

https://www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2420144/spacex-to-launch-sentinel-6-satellite-from-vandenberg-afb/

Jansen · « **Reply #41 on:** 11/20/2020 09:34 pm »

Quote from: jaredhead on 11/20/2020 09:16 pm

Re: Ocean Ave viewing - roadblocks will be out at Floradale Ave. per 30th Space Wing's Facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/30thSpaceWing/posts/10159599044494897

Quote
We are scheduled to launch the Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from VAFB tomorrow at 9:17 a.m.

For public safety, roadblocks will be set up at the corner of 13th Street and New Mexico, Floradale Ave. and W. Central Ave. and Floradale Ave. and W. Ocean Ave.

ArbitraryConstant · « **Reply #42 on:** 11/21/2020 03:37 am »

It looks like the next best option is on Rancho Lompoc Farm Road? I'm assuming they won't be evacuating the prison...

ChrisC · « **Reply #43 on:** 11/23/2020 08:16 pm »

Report on the viewing from Ocean and Floradale, of the Sentinel-6A launch / landing. Note that this particular launch was a rarity with nearly perfect viewing (no marine layer fog).

Quote from: DaveJes1979 on 11/23/2020 05:57 pm

Because of the exquisite weather, viewing the launch from Ocean Ave at the Floradale cross-street was actually an excellent experience. While it was certainly noticeable that we were further away (about 6.7 miles from the pad), it was much better than I expected. I haven't seen a daytime RTLS before, and I was surprised at how well I could see the falling booster after the reentry burn and before the landing burn.

Nonetheless, in the future I hope they will consider putting the roadblock back to the Union Sugar cross-street. I wonder if someone actually did a 3-sigma safety study to justify this move, or if it was just some overly-cautious bureaucrat deciding this.

jig · « **Reply #44 on:** 11/23/2020 11:40 pm »

Quote from: ChrisC on 11/23/2020 08:16 pm

Report on the viewing from Ocean and Floradale, of the Sentinel-6A launch / landing. Note that this particular launch was a rarity with nearly perfect viewing (no marine layer fog).

Quote from: DaveJes1979 on 11/23/2020 05:57 pm
Because of the exquisite weather, viewing the launch from Ocean Ave at the Floradale cross-street was actually an excellent experience. While it was certainly noticeable that we were further away (about 6.7 miles from the pad), it was much better than I expected. I haven't seen a daytime RTLS before, and I was surprised at how well I could see the falling booster after the reentry burn and before the landing burn.

Nonetheless, in the future I hope they will consider putting the roadblock back to the Union Sugar cross-street. I wonder if someone actually did a 3-sigma safety study to justify this move, or if it was just some overly-cautious bureaucrat deciding this.

when i talked with the local PD (not CHP), they said that local farmers had complained after the last RTLS that people had stolen a significant number of cabbages from their farms - apparently the wait that time was ~5 hours, whereas ours was more like 2, from the general arrival time of "morning." so, they said they were asked to push the crowds back to the city limits, even past Bailey, and the CHP tried to do that starting at about 7:30-8am.

at some point, they gave up. we moved to a mid point along Bailey before the cops gave up, and it was great viewing, but more congested for the farmers, and further away than i'd have liked.

i told them that they needed to coordinate communication better if they really wanted Ocean clear back to the city limit, because even the base had been communicating just the FL blockade (and was still while they were pushing people back).

i'm not sure i buy the cabbage theft statement. if anything, i'd be more worried about people urinating or whatever in the fields, and really, none of that is really a problem along Ocean.

sadly, it felt a lot like a know-nothing overly-cautious and newly elected bureaucrat that was throwing his weight around and getting the various PDs involved. i hope next time they open Ocean back up to ~ the south base entrance gate.

Huskymaniac · « **Reply #45 on:** 03/01/2021 03:41 am »

So, if you want to see the pad, what is the best spot? I can sacrifice distance for visibility.

gamesyns · « **Reply #46 on:** 02/02/2022 10:53 pm »

Went to the NROL-87 launch, which was an RTLS launch. Based on this thread, it might have been the first time an RTLS had Ocean Ave opened all the way to 13th St? Either way, parked on the corner of Ocean and Renwick Ave, resulted in a perfect view of launch and landing.

dglow · « **Reply #47 on:** 02/07/2022 06:33 pm »

That’s great to hear. I hope to try Ocean Ave next time.

Some had also reported the Hawk’s Nest being closed for recent launches. Well, for NROL-87 it wasn’t quite open but nonetheless hosted a small crowd. At about 11:45 around twenty or so vehicles had pulled over on the shoulder of Hwy 1, where we found the gate locked. Apparently some local police had stopped by earlier but did not possess the proper key. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

After waiting a few minutes more the group finally ducked under the gate and walked the 1/4 mile or so back to the viewing area. A beautiful vantage point for an equally beautiful day. Great viewing, though we had to be careful with binoculars since MECO’s position in the sky came quite close to the sun.

The Falcon’s sound is certainly muted from that far back. What you gain is the ability to see the rocket and TE poking up above the hills, which was perfect for a RTLS flight. And of course, having to crane one’s neck nearly straight up adds such a visceral, body-awareness sense of perspective to the scale of things, something which might otherwise be lost on such a perfectly clear, blue-sky day.

Hawk’s Nest viewing site: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Shane421 · « **Reply #48 on:** 04/15/2022 03:28 am »

I thought that Ocean and Renwick prevented site of the pad but Ocean and Floradale a little to the East did not. Is that not true? I was considering heading to the F9 launch in the morning.

catdlr · « **Reply #49 on:** 01/14/2024 04:36 pm »

....bump for a reopening of a closer site to view SpaceX launches. This has recently been reopened (accessed) for SpaceX non-RTLS launches. This was my and lots of other space fans' favorite location to set up and view the launch including those from the FireFly launches originating close to the VBSFN airport. Enjoy, and bring a blank and dress warmly, it's breezy and cold at night.

Crosslink:

https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=60039.msg2558390#msg2558390

https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=60039.msg2558438#msg2558438

Map:
https://www.google.com/maps/@34.6827192,-120.6047712,183m/data=!3m1!1e3?entry=ttu

Pictures:
ULA and SpaceX
Firefly
Surf Train Station Parking Lot

Google Geo Tag link

jaredhead · « **Reply #50 on:** 01/14/2024 08:06 pm »

We've been wondering for Firefly launches if Delta II's Corral Road/Saddle Club viewing site with the concrete bleachers was still available. Don't know why but we're surprised to hear Surf Beach is open. Never was able to watch a Delta II from there as they'd say it was an "overflight" issue. Seeing a vehicle go from SLC-2W while at Surf Beach will be a real treat!

catdlr · « **Reply #51 on:** 01/14/2024 08:25 pm »

Quote from: jaredhead on 01/14/2024 08:06 pm

We've been wondering for Firefly launches if Delta II's Corral Road/Saddle Club viewing site with the concrete bleachers was still available. Don't know why but we're surprised to hear Surf Beach is open. Never was able to watch a Delta II from there as they'd say it was an "overflight" issue. Seeing a vehicle go from SLC-2W while at Surf Beach will be a real treat!

I was there for several Sunset Polar launches and the Iris launch with other JPL staff on that site. Yes, overflight is something to behold and the sound. I think Firefly will mostly fly retro so that spot may be open for that. Probably if ULA launches, that will be closed, as it has been in the past. VSFB has the ultimate decision to do what they want or is advised by the launch provider to leave the gate open on Ocean Drive to allow access to the rail station. The station is active and has commuter and Amtrak to serve the Lompoc area. To have an unobstructed view is glorious.

k_feickert · « **Reply #52 on:** 04/30/2024 05:47 pm »

Hello NSF Community, I have created a viewshed analysis for SLC-4E at Vandenberg (green should be good given the elevation, though it does not account for trees/buildings that could block the view). I am very interested in feedback from the rocket viewing community for potential viewing sites that would be agreeable to those who chase rockets:

https://gis.ci.lompoc.ca.us/portal/apps/instant/basic/index.html?appid=c3a0eebc018e411faac813e0de48b2e4

I am also interested in hearing what you prefer in viewing locations:
- Parking
- Restrooms
- Food Access
- As Close As Possible
- Can see the Launchpad
- Launch can still be seen if fogged in
- Etc.

I have also attached a fog map created by using the dataset provided by: “Decadal Summertime Fog & Coastal Low Cloud Dataset for North and Central Coastal California for 1999-2009” http://climate.calcommons.org/datasets/summertime-fog
The full research paper can be read here: https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/2015EA000119

I know Hawk's Nest was a fan-favorite for many years, but was closed to the public in 2022. Would you guys like to see it return or is there potential for a better place for all to enjoy these SpaceX launches that are now happening almost weekly at Vandenberg?

Thank you for your time.

Newton_V · « **Reply #53 on:** 04/30/2024 06:11 pm »

Drive out to the end of San Miguelito road. Can't see the pad, but probably closest for a part of the early ascent.

34.59474 -120.53224

mfoster · « **Reply #54 on:** 04/30/2024 06:32 pm »

I can see most of the launch thru staging from my home in bakerfield.
early evening launchs are the best to view

k_feickert · « **Reply #55 on:** 05/03/2024 03:42 pm »

I tried the spot at Santa Lucia/Victory Rd yesterday for the Maxar WorldView Legion 1&2 launch (which was a return to site). The location is approximately 7 miles away from SLC-4E. There were about 10 vehicles there, but the viewers in attendance said that last time they were there it was double the amount of people. Some adventurous observers ran across the road down onto the hillside by FCC Lompoc. The regulars warned me not to do that as they have seen prison guards escort them back to the road. I guess it pays to not invite scrutiny.

Other than that, you'll find people amassing for views between the trees at the site, you can see the faring and second stage on the pad from this location. The sonic boom is EXCELLENT from this location as the shock wave (I assume) compresses going up the hill and it does not disappoint. It was far better than my usual backyard experience as a local. It was a rather hazy day, so I imagine other days might have better viewing. I have attached some pictures from the launch and what can be seen from this location. Equipment used: refurbished Canon EOS M200 camera with a T-Adapter connected to a Sarblue Mak60 telescope (all handheld). Processing done in open source Darktable.

I have also included a picture of SLC-3E for future reference for anyone wanting to see a launch from this location.

k_feickert · « **Reply #56 on:** 05/12/2024 05:21 am »

Hi NSF Community!
I am happy to report from Surf Beach for the Thursday May 9th Starlink launch. This launch was delayed multiple days, so my experience was a little more exhausting than previous viewing locations for SLC-4E. Some things of importance to note for viewers: the Santa Barbara County Sheriffs have closed road-side parking along Highway 246!

Ocean Park also closes promptly at SUNSET - so this launch window was within two minutes of park closure for those trying to watch from Ocean Park and the Surf Beach parking area was filled nearly two HOURS before the launch window started. Many viewers were turned away and several parked out and around the farm fields from what I was told.

For the lucky 20-30 people who were able to see the launch from Surf Beach they were treated to being 3.4 miles (5.5 km) away from the rocket. We were also treated to incredible sunsets; I was surprised you could see sunspots even without a filter! The end of the road was the best viewing location as you could see the rocket out on the pad. Though be warned that THOUSANDS of mosquitos were present up at the road and down at the parking lot was foul smelling air coming from the pit-latrines at the train station. With not a lot of places to sit most viewers waited in their cars or tried to make the best of it.

This launch got bumped to 9:30 pm (21:30) and my f/12 camera was really struggling with getting enough light. Those who would like to photograph here I'd definitely recommend bringing a faster lens for night shots! The rocket is also poorly lit, so make sure to bring a tripod if you want to get some good static shots of it on the pad if a night launch. Daytime launches should be a real treat, though be advised that this is the absolute worst location for fog in the area so please make sure to check not only the weather forecasts but even the NOAA GOES-West satellite imagery just in case:
https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/goes/sector_band.php?sat=G18&sector=psw&band=GEOCOLOR&length=24

Liquid Oxygen fueling begins approximately 35 minutes before flight, so if you want to see "venting" make sure you have a good spot by then. Also bring a chair if you plan on sitting anywhere other than your car!

Amenities:
Pit-latrine toilets are available (mind the smell)
No food is available, make sure to bring snacks if the launch is delayed/scrubbed
Cell service is pretty terrible, plan ahead for entertainment or a way to help pass the time!
Do your best to be social if you have no signal so you can find out updates about launch status.
Parking is first come first served; the Sheriffs WILL close the road to the beach once its near capacity! Please make sure you have a backup plan! My suggestions are Santa Lucia Rd/Victory Rd (7 miles/11km distance from launch site) or better yet River Bend Park in Lompoc (9 miles/15km from launch site) which has ample parking, portable toilets, and a HUGE grass field to play around on/picnic in case the launch is scrubbed.

Please let me know where'd you'd like me to scout out next!
Clear skies!

catdlr · « **Reply #57 on:** 05/12/2024 07:58 am »

Quote from: k_feickert on 05/12/2024 05:21 am

Hi NSF Community!

Please let me know where'd you'd like me to scout out next!
Clear skies!

That's my favorite spot. Back long ago, there weren't any restrictions, and I was able to camp there next to the old railroad/mail station. I think NSF has set up cameras there previously for selected SpaceX launches when they were not RTLS. Thanks for the warning on the station's closer hours.

Tony

k_feickert · « **Reply #58 on:** 05/15/2024 03:02 am »

Hi NSF Community,
Today I went to the Community Center in Lompoc to scout that out... it went as well as you'd imagine. The rocket launched today right up through the trees in the parking lot, visibility wasn't very good for liftoff at all. Behind those trees were more trees and an apartment complex. The only upside to the Community Center is the numerous flushing toilets. The facility is actually quite nice, but to see anything you need to be on the North side of the building out in the parking lot. For photography's sake, you need to contend with the trees in the parking lot that can block visibility as it travels South overhead and the electrical lines that are to the East, which conveniently blocks your view around stage separation. Overall, I am not a fan of this spot personally, but if you're someone who doesn't like crowds, enjoys flushable toilets, and ADA access this is the spot for you! No one else was at this location for viewing, so it's pretty quiet here.

I apologize for the attached photos, I forgot to check my shutter speed at launch and didn't realize I was at 1/125 with a 750mm lens until it was too late! Out of all of the pictures taken 99% were very blurry and blown out.

Next launch I was thinking St. Mary's parking lot, or maybe Allan Hancock Lompoc Campus? I'm still open for suggestions

catdlr · « **Reply #59 on:** 05/15/2024 03:28 am »

Quote from: k_feickert on 05/15/2024 03:02 am

Next launch I was thinking St. Mary's parking lot, or maybe Allan Hancock Lompoc Campus? I'm still open for suggestions

Perhaps Jalama Regional Park: MAP

Specifically this spot before crossing the tracks: MAP

k_feickert · « **Reply #60 on:** 05/15/2024 03:38 am »

Quote from: catdlr on 05/15/2024 03:28 am

Perhaps Jalama Regional Park: MAP

Specifically this spot before crossing the tracks: MAP

I would definitely need to make sure that Jalama doesn't get closed for the launch, it seems a lot of the Starlink launches lately are having the beach get evacuated which is causing some upset recently.

k_feickert · « **Reply #61 on:** 05/15/2024 04:18 am »

Hi NSF Community,
I forgot to post my report from Riverbend Park in Lompoc for the April 6, 2024 Starlink launch. This is an easy to get to location towards the North/East side of town. There was a LOT of parking available and numerous portable toilets if needed. The view towards SLC-3E is easy to see and 4E is just slightly to the left of it (see picture below). On takeoff there are some power lines directly at the start, but then it was an unobstructed view all the way through stage separation.

This park has a MASSIVE grass field, so if a launch gets scrubbed you can at least enjoy a picnic or throw a ball around. The airport approach is nearby, and you can get some great views of small aircraft flying around sometimes. One of the tracking stations is also visible from the park to the South.

Though from what I hear, this location gets extremely busy during Soccer season on Saturdays. Otherwise, this is usually an underutilized park. Hopefully if more people go here for watching launches maybe the local AYSO club could open their concessions stand... I can only dream

Riverbend Park is definitely in my top-3 locations so far, and I would definitely encourage anyone to check it out sometime!

catdlr · « **Reply #62 on:** 07/26/2024 12:19 am »

Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VANDENBERG RELEASES NEW LAUNCH ALERT MESSAGES

VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. – July 25, 2024 – Vandenberg Space Force Base recently released a new launch alert messaging system to provide updates on launches and important news updates. The new system allows users to select from notification topic’s as well as how to receive notifications.

The system offers updates via text and email. To sign up for alerts, visit https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDODSFVANDENBERG/signup/41755

"With the rise in launch operations at Vandenberg, it is crucial for us to maintain clear and frequent communication with the local and regional community," said Col. Mark Shoemaker, Space Launch Delta 30 commander. "Our new alert system is designed to enhance transparency and keep residents informed."

In order to support transparency in Vandenberg launch operations, Vandenberg leadership has taken significant steps this year to aid in beach access and public awareness. The base reworked launch operations to minimize beach closures, implemented a text message and email launch alert option, and continued a rigorous environmental monitoring process. The USSF works closely and continuously with federal and state regulatory agencies and partners to ensure the highest standards as evidenced by Vandenberg’s pristine 46 miles of continuous California coastline.

Launch information will still be posted on the base website at www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil and all Vandenberg social media platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

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