CIRA Tests Space Rider Reentry Performance with Damaged Heat Shield
CIRA has completed critical testing of the thermal protection system for the European Space Agency's Space Rider spacecraft, demonstrating resilience against reentry damage from micrometeoroids. The tests confirmed the performance of the ISiComp ceramic composite material. The inaugural mission aboard Vega C is anticipated in early 2028, with 18 commercial customers secured for the flight.
Avio Delays SMILE Launch After Component Production Issue Identified
Avio has delayed the ESA SMILE mission launch aboard a Vega C rocket due to a production issue with a subsystem component. Preparations for the SMILE launch commenced in mid-February, including the transfer of the P120C first stage. The specific timeline for the rescheduled launch remains undetermined as Avio addresses the identified issue.
How to follow the Smile launch live
*ESA* will broadcast the *Smile* mission launch on 9 April 2026 at 07:29 BST, utilizing the *Vega-C* rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. The launch was postponed due to a technical issue on a subsystem component production line after VV29 integration, with a new date to be confirmed later. Times may change unexpectedly.
T-20 days: Smile to launch on 9 April
Smile is set to launch on a Vega-C rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana on 9 April at 08:29 CEST. This mission, a collaboration between ESA and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, aims to study Earth's response to solar particles using X-ray and ultraviolet cameras. Smile will achieve a final orbit 121,000 km above the North Pole.
A look back at 2025 for Europe’s Spaceport
Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana achieved a significant milestone in 2025, returning to full autonomous launch capability with Ariane 6 and Vega-C. Key launches included MetOp-SG-A1, Sentinel-5, and the CSO-3 satellite. The P160C solid rocket motor test marked a crucial development, enhancing Europe's competitive edge in space access and sustainability for future missions.
Ariane 6 and Vega-C over Earth (artist impression)
Ariane 6 and Vega-C rockets are depicted in an artist's impression soaring over Earth. Ariane 6 can be configured with four boosters, enabling it to deliver over 15 tonnes to a 500 km polar orbit. Vega-C supports European institutional missions with a capacity of 2.2 tonnes to a 700 km polar orbit, utilizing P120C boosters.
Everything rockets
ESA's Ariane 6 and Vega-C rockets represent Europe's advancements in space transportation, enhancing launch capabilities for various missions. Space Rider, a reusable laboratory, is set for its inaugural flight in 2025. The Future Launchers Preparatory Programme aims to ensure future rockets meet evolving performance and reliability standards, supporting Europe's ambitions in space exploration and satellite deployment.