What: Minuteman III missile test launch at Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County.

When: 11:01 p.m. Tuesday to 5:01 a.m. Wednesday. If needed, the team has a backup opportunities Wednesday night to Thursday morning.

For missile tests, the team typically targets a departure at the opening of the six-hour launch window. But delays due to technical troubles or unfavorable weather at Vandenberg or downrange can postpone liftoff until later in the window. 

Where: Underground silo, or launch facility, on North Base.

Landing: No booster landing planned as typically seen in some space missions. 

However, the weapon’s mock re-entry vehicles will travel approximately 4,200 miles to predetermined target typically near the Kwajalein Atoll in the central Pacific Ocean.

Why: To collect data about the weapon system’s accuracy and reliability. 

Watch: There’s no live video feed, but the military typically releases video and images after a successful test launch.

Vandenberg launches close to sunset or sunrise can be especially picturesque. If skies are clear, the rocket’s departure might be visible from elsewhere around California and, under certain conditions, other Western states.