Although there is a growing tendency for satellites to become larger, there is still a need for a small launcher to put 300 to 2000 kg satellites, for scientific and Earth observation missions, into polar and low-Earth orbits cheaply and quickly. EuropeÕs answer to these needs is Vega, named after the 2nd brightest star in the northern hemisphere. Vega will make access to space easier, quicker and cheaper.
Development of the Vega launcher started in 1998 and the first launch is planned to take place in 2005.
This programme provides an overview of this new launcher and explains how costs are being kept to a minimum using technologies developed for previous Ariane launchers.
The 6-minute A-roll contains split audio with an English guide track and is complemented by a B-roll with international sound only.

Voiceover A-roll
Start 10.00.00
10.00.42 Since 20 years, the Ariane launcher is designed, developed and manufactured in
Europe. It is known as a commercial success and has ensured Europe a Competitive launch industry and a world-class spaceport.
10.00.54 Jean-Jacques Dordain, ESA Director of launchers
""Europe has always had the political willingness to have an independent access to
space for developing new services for the citizen and also to have access to new
markets. From this political new willingness the operator Aerienne-Espace and the
European industry have become the world leader on the launch services. But today
the competition is increasing on a stable market and Europe must develop further
its capabilities and must increase its' competitiveness.""
 
10.01.32 This is why in 2005, Vega, a new small launcher will
complement the current Ariane 5. Vegas' first launch is planned to take place
from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou in French Guiana, South America.
10.01.50 B