History of Vandenberg Launch Complex 576E in Timeline

Vandenberg Launch Complex 576E, situated at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, is a launch pad initially constructed for testing SM-65 Atlas ICBMs as part of the ABRES program. Now, the complex serves as an orbital launch site specifically for Minotaur-C launch vehicles. Its history reflects a shift from Cold War missile testing to contemporary orbital launches, highlighting its adaptability within the evolving landscape of space exploration and technology.

August 1, 1962: Maiden Launch

On August 1, 1962, the maiden launch from Vandenberg Launch Complex 576E was performed, marking the first use of the complex.

1962: United States Air Force Operations

In 1962, all launches were operated by the United States Air Force.

1964: United States Air Force Operations

In 1964, all launches were operated by the United States Air Force.

1965: Retirement of the Atlas missile

In 1965, the Atlas missile was retired following the introduction of replacements like the LGM-25C Titan II and the LGM-30 Minuteman. Due to the retirement and the launch of orbital Atlas rockets from SLC-3 and SLC-4, ABRES was no longer required and the complex was deactivated.

March 13, 1994: First Orbital Launch

On March 13, 1994, the first orbital launch from LC-576E occurred after the site's reactivation, with a Taurus rocket carrying TAOS for the Air Force and a satellite for ARPA.

1994: Orbital Sciences Corporation Operations

In 1994, all launches were operated by Orbital Sciences Corporation.

2003: Test Launch of Ground Based Interceptor

In 2003, a test launch of Orbital's Ground Based Interceptor took place from LC-576E, utilizing Taurus's three upper stages as an anti-ballistic missile.

2009: Failure of NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory launch

In 2009, the launch of NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory from LC-576E ended in failure.

2011: Orbital Sciences Corporation Operations

In 2011, all launches were operated by Orbital Sciences Corporation.

2011: Failure of Glory satellite launch

In 2011, the launch of the Glory satellite from LC-576E ended in failure.

2015: Orbital's merger with Alliant Techsystems

In 2015, Orbital Sciences Corporation merged with Alliant Techsystems to form Orbital ATK.

October 31, 2017: Launch of Minotaur-C

On October 31, 2017, Orbital ATK launched the Minotaur-C (formerly known as the Taurus) from LC-576E.

2017: Orbital ATK Operations

In 2017, all launches were operated by Orbital ATK.

2018: Northrop Grumman Acquisition

In 2018, Northrop Grumman acquired Orbital ATK, becoming the new tenant of the Minotaur-C.

October 2024: ABL Space Systems shift

In October 2024, ABL Space Systems announced they would be shifting their operations towards military applications, following a failed launch and a preclusion of the RS1 at Kodiak.