Vega-C rocket with Sentinel-1C satellite artist's impression

Artist's impression of Copernicus Sentinel-1C in its Vega-C launcher. Sentinel-1C is the third Sentinel-1 satellite to be launched as part of Europe’s Copernicus programme. It will continue the critical task of delivering radar imagery for a wide range of services, applications and science – all of which benefit society.

Vega-C is ESA’s smaller rocket specialised in launching to polar orbits for Earth observation satellites such as Sentinel-1C. Together with Ariane 6 – that had its inaugural launch summer 2024 – the two rockets ensure Europe has autonomous access to space for the benefit of our citizens.

This launch is significant as it will be the ‘return to flight’ of Vega-C after it has been grounded since its previous flight in 2022. This launch will be the 25th flight for the Vega family of rockets, the last Vega flight in September 2024 marked the retirement of Vega – Vega-C’s predecessor.

Scheduled to lift off on ESA’s Vega-C rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, Sentinel-1C will continue the critical task of delivering key radar imagery for a wide range of services, applications and science – all of which benefit society.