VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (Dec. 5, 2008) A ground-based interceptor lifts off from Vandenberg Air Force Base.

The launch, designated FTG-05, was a test of the Ground-based Midcourse Defense element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System.

The missile successfully intercepted a long-range target launched from Kodiak, Alaska.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Joe Davila)