stating that the warning areas off the coast of Southern California—around the —would be activated, causing noise issues associated with re-routed LAX operations. Theories flew, some being totally absurd. In the end, it was exactly what it should have been—a Trident submarine-launched ballistic missile test.

Most people go about their lives in Los Angeles with no idea that some of the world’s premier military operating areas lay not far off of their coast, one of which can especially

These breathtaking nighttime launches of the LGM-30G Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic…

You can see all these , with the elongated one off of Southern California being used long-range missile launches like the Trident D5 launch tonight.

Beyond the fact that , the tell-tale sign that tonight’s activity was ballistic missile launch was the swirling, almost surreal trail it left as it tore west through the early evening sky.

We have seen these and each seems to have its own unique flavor.

Yesterday morning at 6:18 a.m. EST an Atlas V rocket with a cutting-edge Navy communications…

Here is the the Navy’s official statement on the event from the Third Fleet’s Cmdr. Ryan Perry :

“Navy Strategic Systems Programs conducted scheduled Trident II (D5) missile test flight at sea from USS Kentucky, an Ohio Class SSBN, in the Pacific Test Range off the coast of Southern California. The tests were part of a scheduled, ongoing system evaluation test. Launches are conducted on a frequent, recurring basis to ensure the continued reliability of the system. Each test activity provides valuable information about our systems, thus contributing to assurance in our capabilities.

The missile was not armed. Strategic Systems Programs does not routinely announce missile testing. Information regarding the test launch of Trident II (D5) missiles is classified before the launch.”

At this time it is not clear if the warning areas will be activated for more nights this week, or if this test was the objective of closing the airspace, which is now complete. Hopefully there will be more launches with more spectacular photos and video, although those around LAX may have to deal with a little more jet noise than normal in the process.

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