Vega-C the next generation of the European small lift launcher developed by AVIO and European Space Agency (ESA).
Asiya S
Artist's view of Vega-C on the launch pad pillars | credits: ESA - Vega-C
Vega-C the next generation of the European small lift launcher developed by AVIO and European Space Agency (ESA) is going to have its inaugural flight on June 2021 from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou French Guiana (South America). It is an improved version of Vega rocket family and is more versatile, cost-effective and powerful.
Vega-C is the result of fabulous collaboration with AVIO as prime contractor and ESA directing the plan and production.
In order to minimise the costs and to limit the assembly processes, all inter-stage segments of the launcher is redesigned. Four stage Vega-C have powerful solid rocket motors like P120C for first stage and Zefiro-40 for the second stage. Vega-C can deliver it's payload up to 2.3 tonnes into its reference low Earth orbit and it also allows to rideshare two or more payloads in various configurations through range adapters like Small Spacecraft Mission Service and others.
With the new Vega-C we are able to increase the launch capability to put into orbit nearly 60 percent of additional mass with respect to previous Vegaa reaching up to 2.3 tonnes of spacecraft mass.- Giorgio Tumino, Head of Vega-C and Space Rider developments, ESA
The new Vega-C is larger than the current Vega-C with a height of 9m and a diameter of 3.3m to accommodate larger payloads.
ESA is planning to expand the capabilities of Vega-C and in terms to optimise Vega-C launch services. Along with Vega-C, ESA is planning to launch its first operational reusable vehicle Space Rider which will operate for a couple of months in Low Earth Orbit and come back to Earth autonomously.
Vega-C will offer new services, competitive services for European institutional needs first but also global market needs.- Daniel Neuenschwander, Director of Space Transportation
Vega-C offers affordable launches combined with innovative payload versatility which makes this a competitive launcher. European industry is once more working together to show its excellence and unwavering quality. With Vega-C, Europe consolidates it's position in the global launcher market and it helps to ensure Europe's independent access to space.