Vega-C | Sentinel-3C

### Vega-C Launches Sentinel-3C: Enhancing Earth's Observation Capabilities

On October 31, 2026, the European Space Agency (ESA) is set to launch the Sentinel-3C satellite aboard a Vega-C rocket from the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana. This mission marks a significant step in bolstering the Copernicus program's Earth observation network, with Sentinel-3C joining its predecessors to deliver continuous, high-precision data on marine and terrestrial environments. As the third operational satellite in the Sentinel-3 series, it underscores Europe's commitment to monitoring climate change, ocean dynamics, and land use with unprecedented accuracy.

The primary objectives of the Sentinel-3 mission revolve around providing essential data for environmental monitoring and resource management. Sentinel-3C will carry a suite of advanced instruments, including the Sea and Land Surface Temperature Radiometer (SLSTR), which measures sea surface temperatures with an accuracy of 0.3 Kelvin, crucial for tracking ocean heat content and climate patterns. Complementing this is the Ocean and Land Colour Instrument (OLCI), offering 21 spectral bands for detailed imaging of chlorophyll concentrations, water quality, and vegetation health. Additionally, the satellite features a Synthetic Aperture Radar Altimeter (SRAL) for precise measurements of sea level, wave heights, and ice thickness, alongside a Microwave Radiometer (MWR) to correct atmospheric interference. These capabilities enable applications ranging from fisheries management and coastal erosion monitoring to wildfire detection and agricultural forecasting, supporting global efforts to address environmental challenges.

The Vega-C rocket, developed by Avio under ESA's oversight, represents an evolution of the original Vega launcher, optimized for small to medium payloads. Standing at 35 meters tall with a diameter of 3.025 meters, it boasts a four-stage design: three solid-propellant stages (P120C, Zefiro-40, and Zefiro-9) and a liquid-fueled upper stage (AVUM+). The P120C first stage, shared with the Ariane 6, delivers 4,500 kN of thrust, enabling Vega-C to lift up to 2,300 kg to a 700 km polar orbit—a 50% increase over its predecessor. This upgrade incorporates advanced carbon-fiber composites for reduced mass and enhanced reliability, with a total launch mass of 210 tons. Technical specifications highlight its precision: the AVUM+ stage allows for multiple restarts, facilitating complex orbital insertions and multi-payload deployments.

Vega-C's performance history builds on