Sentinel-6 Launch from Vandenberg

Team Vandenberg launched the Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite Saturday, Nov. 21, at 9:17 a.m., from Vandenberg Air Force Base. The Sentinel-6 is the first of two identical satellites to head into Earth orbit five years apart to continue sea level observations for at least the next decade.

Col. Anthony Mastalir, 30th Space Wing commander was the space launch commander for this mission.

“The Western Range is excited to provide the opportunity for this unique launch. Working together with NASA and SpaceX to provide a successful launch takes planning and teamwork and I am proud of the work my 30th Space Wing members have done today. The technology from this satellite will provide critical data for scientific research and lay the framework for future generations to study the ocean.”

The 30th SW's primary responsibilities include maintaining and operating the Western Range, providing mission assurance, safeguarding the public and ensuring minimal environmental impact so we can provide services, facilities and range safety control for the execution of DoD, civilian and commercial launches.

To learn more about the launch, visit https://www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil/.../spacex.../

Photos by edhat readers

By Robert Bernstein:

Here is my video of the SpaceX Rocket Launch from Vandenberg on November 21, 2020 at 9:17AM.  My video was taken in Girsh Park in Goleta.

The mission will launch the Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich oceanography satellite for NASA, the European Space Agency, the European Commission, Eumetsat, and NOAA.

Notably, this oceanography satellite will monitor the rise of sea level as a result of the Climate Crisis.

By PhotoDude

Picture taken just after Space-X Sentinel-6 Michael Frielich rocket launch from Vandenberg.  note tubular exhaust shape due to atmospheric pressure, etc. They were taken from the Isla Vista bluffs with a Nikon D500 camera and Nikon 500 mm lens.

By Max Rosenberg