Vega-C flight VV30 overview infographic.

Europe’s Vega-C rocket can launch 2300 kg into space, such as small scientific and Earth observation spacecraft. At 35 m tall, Vega-C weighs 210 tonnes on the launch pad and reaches orbit with three solid-propellant-powered stages before the fourth liquid-propellant stage takes over for precise placement of satellites into their desired orbit around Earth.

ESA’s FLEX and the Copernicus Sentinel-3C satellite are flying to space on Vega-C flight VV30 from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. A dual launch, the two satellites are fitted inside Vega-C’s fairing with a secondary payload adapter called Vespa and are deployed into orbit in turn with Sentinel-3C deploying first.  

Complementing the Ariane family to launch all types of payloads into orbit, Vega-C ensures that Europe has versatile and independent access to space. ESA leads the Vega-C programme, working with Avio as prime contractor and design authority. For this launch Avio is also launch service operator.

For more information, visit: www.esa.int/vega