Vega C Return Delayed Following Static Fire Anomaly

Europe's Vega C rocket, which has been working towards a return to flight following a launch failure in December 2022, has experienced another setback.

A Zefiro 40 solid rocket motor malfunctioned during a static-fire test on June 28, pushing in the vehicle's return to flight to 2024. This test was a crucial step in the requalification process of the motor after the previous launch failure.

Avio intended to demonstrate the performance of new carbon-carbon material in the motor's nozzle throat, as the previous material had eroded, causing a loss of thrust. The new carbon-carbon material performed as expected during the static-fire test. However, an unspecified anomaly occurred approximately 40 seconds into the firing, resulting in a reduction of pressure in the motor.

Avio and the European Space Agency (ESA) will conduct further investigations and testing to determine the cause of the anomaly and ensure optimal performance conditions.

"We have to see in detail what this anomaly will mean." - Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director General

The static-fire test represented a significant step in the effort to resume Vega C launches. Prior to the anomaly, the Vega C was scheduled for its next launch later this year, carrying the Sentinel-1C radar imaging satellite as part of the Copernicus program.

Avio did not comment on a revised schedule for the return to flight of Vega C.

"The planning for the return to flight of Vega C is currently under evaluation, pending further analysis and investigation."