Experimental missile defense satellite launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base

Missile defense satellite launched from California

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — Department of Defense officials say an experimental satellite for the U.S. missile defense program has been successfully launched.

A Delta 2 rocket carrying the satellite lifted off Tuesday from Vandenberg Air Force Base on the central California coast.

Rick Lehner, a spokesman for the Missile Defense Agency, says the satellite is equipped with experimental sensors designed to detect, track and provide targeting information on missiles.

Air Force officials say the satellite achieved low Earth orbit about an hour after launch.