Vandenberg missile test a success

The U.S. military has successfully launched a missile interceptor rocket on a test flight from Vandenberg Air Force Base.

According to the Missile Defense Agency, the Ground-Based Interceptor launched Saturday on schedule and executed a series of pre-planned maneuvers when it reached space. There was no target.

Officials say the program is currently developing a system effective against ballistic missiles. “We have sensors placed along the flight path, potentially some space sensors. The space-tracking surveillance system may be able to get some info on that as well depending on the shot times,” Debra Christman of the Missile Defense Agency said.

All components of the missile performed as designed. The agency says it will use the test results to improve the nation’s ballistic missile defense system. It was Vandenberg’s first launch of the year.