Last rocket motor test paves way for Vega-C launch

Last rocket motor test paves way for Vega-C launch
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Oct 04, 2024

The newly redesigned Zefiro-40 solid rocket motor, serving as the second stage of the Vega-C rocket, successfully underwent its second firing today. The test was conducted by Avio, the prime contractor, at the Salto di Quirra test site in Sardinia, Italy. This marks the final qualification test for the Zefiro-40's upgraded engine nozzle, following an initial test in May 2024.

Engineers are now reviewing the motor's performance, with early data showing that both the nozzle assembly and the motor functioned as anticipated.

In contrast to May's test, which used high operating pressure and a shorter burn time, today's test was conducted at lower pressure and featured an extended burn, aligning with the test's predictions. These two tests are part of the standard preparation process for solid-fuel rocket motors, helping clear the way for the Vega-C rocket's launch by the end of 2024.

The Zefiro-40 is a 7.6-meter-tall motor loaded with more than 36 tonnes of solid propellant. It is one of three solid-propulsion stages used by Vega-C. For this test, the motor was placed on a horizontal test bench. The Zefiro-40 is both developed and manufactured by Avio at their Colleferro facility near Rome, Italy.

Vega-C: The next chapter
Vega-C represents a major evolution of the Vega rocket family, which is primarily used for launching Earth observation satellites into orbit. The original Vega, first launched in 2012, completed 22 flights over its 12-year lifespan, with its final flight occurring on September 4, 2024, successfully placing the third Sentinel-2 satellite into orbit.

The new Vega-C, building on Vega's legacy, ensures Europe continues to have versatile and independent access to space. The rocket, an important complement to the Ariane rocket family, offers enhanced performance, a larger payload capacity, and improved cost competitiveness. It will launch from the same pad as Vega at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana.

Vega-C features two new solid propulsion stages, an upgraded upper stage, a larger payload fairing, and revamped ground infrastructure, all contributing to new mission capabilities. The rocket will bolster Europe's autonomy in space exploration.

A collaborative effort
The European Space Agency (ESA) leads the qualification process for the Vega-C launch system and procures launch services for institutional missions within Europe. Thirteen ESA Member States-Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland-participated in the Vega-C development program.

Avio serves as the prime contractor and design authority for Vega-C launchers, while Arianespace is the launch service provider. The next launch of Vega-C is slated for the end of 2024.