Vega-C paper model

Just in time for Vega-C’s return-to-flight, here’s your chance to build your own paper model. Space enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy this engaging, medium-difficulty challenge.

Our printable do-it-yourself Vega-C model kit allows you to build a 1:75-scale paper model featuring three solid-propellant stages, the AVUM+ upper stage and a payload fairing. The completed model reaches a total height of 46,6 cm.

Start your adventure by downloading the PDF assembly kit here, then grab your scissors and glue and enjoy a rewarding hands-on experience. Younger builders may need some adult supervision.

To achieve the best results, use A4-sized, uncoated white paper between 150g and 190g. This paper type absorbs glue well, ensuring a strong and sturdy model.

Building on the proven success of Vega, ESA's Vega-C delivers enhanced performance, increased payload capacity, and improved cost-effectiveness. Operating from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, it strengthens Europe’s autonomy in space by enabling innovative missions, including return-to-Earth operations with ESA’s reusable Space Rider reentry vehicle.

As a medium-lift launch system, Vega-C complements the larger Ariane rockets, securing Europe’s independent access to space and catering to diverse needs in institutional, scientific, commercial, and small satellite markets.

With a height of nearly 35 metres and a liftoff mass of 210 tonnes, Vega-C can deliver payloads of up to 2300 kg to a reference 700 km polar orbit. Its versatile payload carriers can handle a variety of cargo sizes, from CubeSats as light as 1 kg up to a single large payload.