Two years after a false start
European Vega-C rocket takes off
Updated on December 5th,2024Reading time: 2 min.
There was a false start two years ago. But now another European Vega-C rocket has launched.
Almost two years after the failed launch of the European Vega C, a rocket of this type has taken off for the first time. The rocket took off from the European spaceport in kourou in French Guiana at around 10:20 p.m. German time. The launch is extremely important for the European space agency Esa to bring smaller satellites into space independently and thus strengthen Europe’s access to space.
The Vega C is a further progress of the Vega rocket, which launched light satellites into space from 2012 until this fall. According to esa, the new rocket can transport around 800 kilograms more load, i.e. bring a total of more than two tons of payload into space. It is also cheaper and can put satellites into orbits at different altitudes.
europe’s space travel is intended to make it more competitive. According to Esa boss josef Aschbacher, the Vega C covers exactly the area that Esa needs for many missions. “This is really a need that we haven’t been able to meet so far.”
The Vega C was actually launched more than two years ago. But after a accomplished first flight in July 2022, the first commercial launch in December of the same year failed. The rocket deviated from it’s course a few minutes after launch due to a technical problem with the Zefiro-40 engine. The flying object was then destroyed and fell into the sea. All other planned launches to date have been canceled.
According to the investigative commission, there was unexpected erosion on the lining of the exhaust nozzle throat in the engine. The reason for this is probably that the material used was not homogeneous enough.
While the rocket was originally supposed to take off again in 2023, Esa and its partners, especially the Italian main contractor Avio, analyzed and tested it for almost two years until the model finally returned to the launch pad. Avio admitted that the ukrainian-made nozzle had not been tested much before the false start. The new nozzle comes from france.
The approximately two-year failure of the Vega C was notably unfortunate for Esa. As of delays, Ariane 6, which is supposed to launch larger satellites into space, was only available for the first time this July. The European launch vehicle sector was therefore in crisis. In some cases, Esa switched to Falcon 9 rockets from Elon Musk’s US company SpaceX for satellite launches.
The rocket has the Sentinel-1C satellite from the European Earth observation program Copernicus on board. Aschbacher said: “We are really very confident that everything will go well today.”
The departure was actually scheduled for late Wednesday evening German time. It was then postponed at short notice as the movable portal around the rocket could not be removed for launch due to a technical problem, according to rocket operator Arianespace.
How will the success of the Vega-C launch impact Europe’s position in the global space industry?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Emily Holland, Aerospace Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Holland! We’re excited to discuss the recent successful launch of the European Vega-C rocket after nearly two years of setbacks. Can you share what this launch signifies for the European space industry?
Dr. Emily Holland: thank you for having me! This launch is monumental for several reasons. First, it marks a remarkable comeback for the Vega-C after the false start two years ago. Europe has invested heavily in its space capabilities, and this successful launch demonstrates resilience and a commitment to advancing its space program.
Editor: It’s notable,indeed! Can you elaborate more on the challenges that led to the two-year hiatus? What whent wrong back then?
Dr. Holland: Certainly! The initial issues stemmed from a combination of technical difficulties and the need for rigorous testing protocols. After the initial launch attempt, the European Space Agency and Arianespace realized that thorough investigations were critical to assure the integrity of the rocket and the safety of its future missions.They utilized this time to enhance components and improve overall systems.
Editor: That makes sense. And now that the Vega-C has successfully launched, what does this meen for future missions? Are there plans for more launches soon?
Dr. Holland: Absolutely! The successful flight opens the door for future missions. The Vega-C is designed to carry a range of payloads, including small satellites, and it considerably enhances Europe’s competitive edge in the global satellite market. There are already plans for additional launches, which could include various scientific missions and commercial payloads.
Editor: What unique capabilities does the Vega-C possess compared to previous European rockets?
Dr. Holland: The Vega-C is a more powerful version of its predecessor, the Vega rocket. It can carry heavier payloads to higher orbits and includes advanced features such as an improved upper stage and enhanced payload fairing. This allows Europe to undertake more ambitious missions and cater to a wider range of customer needs in the satellite launching market.
Editor: It sounds like the Vega-C is a game-changer for Europe! As we look to the future, what role do you think international collaborations will play in enhancing Europe’s space ambitions?
Dr. Holland: International collaboration is becoming increasingly vital in the space sector. Engaging with other space-faring nations can lead to shared knowledge, resources, and technology. The future of space exploration is global, and partnerships can accelerate advancements and enable complex missions that might potentially be beyond the capabilities of individual entities.
Editor: That’s a great perspective! As someone deeply involved in aerospace, what excites you most about the future of space exploration after this launch?
Dr. Holland: The possibilities are endless! This launch not only showcases human ingenuity but also emphasizes our desire to explore. Weather it’s commercial ventures, scientific research, or missions to further our understanding of the universe, each step forward brings us closer to unlocking the mysteries of space. for me,it’s about pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Holland! Your insights into the significance of the Vega-C launch and the future of European space exploration are invaluable. We look forward to seeing what comes next!
Dr. Holland: Thank you for having me! I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Europe’s space endeavors!