On Monday, the European Space Agency
(ESA) conducted a successful test of its newest projectile, the Vega
rocket. Designed to carry up to nine objects totaling less than 2.5
metric tons ("tonnes," for those in the know) into orbit, the four-stage
vehicle stands 30 meters tall and weighs in at just under 140 metric
tons when fully loaded. The rocket aims to solve a key -- if slightly
humdrum -- problem: at present, European researchers send their
instrumentation into space on retrofitted Russian intercontinental
ballistic missiles (ICBM). The Vega platform should provide greater
launch flexibility and reduce the delay (which can be months) scientists
experience while waiting to hitch a ride
on an ICBM. Although still in the testing stage, Monday's maiden voyage
was a promising first step for the new spacecraft. Hit the source for
more rocket-related excitement.
