Vega C

Vega C is a single-body expendable launch system designed and operated by the Italian company Avio, with support from the European Space Agency (ESA). It is an evolution of the original Vega launch system, designed to offer increased performance and versatility.

The primary goal of Vega C's development was to enhance the launcher's capabilities in terms of payload mass and volume while maintaining the cost-effectiveness and reliability of its predecessor. Compared to the original Vega, Vega C features a more powerful first stage, a longer second stage, and an improved upper stage. These enhancements allow Vega C to place larger and heavier payloads into a variety of orbits, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Sun-synchronous Orbit (SSO), and Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO).

The vehicle's modular design incorporates solid rocket motors for the first three stages and a restartable liquid-propellant engine for the fourth stage. This configuration provides flexibility in mission planning and allows for precise orbit insertion.

Vega C is primarily launched from the Centre Spatial Guyanais (Guiana Space Centre) in Kourou, French Guiana. It is intended to serve the growing market for small and medium-sized satellites, offering a competitive launch solution for both institutional and commercial customers.

A notable failure occurred on the second Vega C flight in December 2022, resulting in the loss of the Pléiades Neo 5 and 6 satellites. The cause was later attributed to a Zefiro 40 engine nozzle defect. Following the incident, corrective measures were implemented to prevent recurrence.