A mysterious streak of light seen moving across the Southern California sky Saturday night was revealed to be an unarmed missile test.
The Pentagon said it was a scheduled missile test flight conducted at sea from the USS Kentucky. The missile was not armed and the tests were part of a scheduled and ongoing system evaluation test.
But to those who saw it, the missile test was spontaneous and mysterious, and many curious onlookers caught the streak of light on social media.
Naval Missile Test off California Creates Streaking Light Russia Holds War Games Involving Numerous Missile LaunchesThe Pentagon said missile testing is not routinely announced and information regarding the test launch of this kind of missile, a Trident II (D5), is classified prior to launch.
"Launches are conducted on a frequent, recurring basis to ensure the continued reliability of the system," said the Pentagon. "Each test activity provides valuable information about our systems, thus contributing to assurance in our capabilities."