Atlas launches from Vandenberg
11. February 2013 - For the launch of its newest Landsat satellite,
NASA did also invite international guests to California. Earth observation satellites are
often put into polar orbits, in order to cover the whole surface of the Earth. Such
satellites are launched at the Western Range at Vandenberg Air Force Base just north of
Los Angeles.
Working on an Air Force Base does require a lot of paperwork for civilians. Even
more so, if you're not an US citizen. As a matter of fact, I did not receive permission to
enter onto the launch pad or to visit the rocket. However, I was granted to setup my cameras
just outside the launch pad's fence. Not bad at all!
Unfortunately, I did not expect frosty nights in sunny California. As a consequence,
two out of four camera batteries did not survive the night. But still I am happy with the
pictures I got!