FLEX and Sentinel-3C launch together on Vega-C
The European Space Agency’s FLEX research satellite and Copernicus Sentinel-3C were launched into orbit on the same Vega-C flight from French Guiana.
Event / data period: 2026-09-15
Published: · Updated:
Flight VV30 lifted off at 03:21 CEST on 15 September. A new Vespa adapter carried both satellites; Sentinel-3C was deployed first and FLEX about an hour later. ESA received first signals from both spacecraft and confirmed contact with ground control.
FLEX was designed to measure the faint fluorescence plants emit during photosynthesis, supporting research on plant health and ecosystem productivity. Sentinel-3C will continue observations of oceans, land, ice and atmosphere for Copernicus services.
Data
Satellites on flight VV30
Number of satellites carried on Vega-C flight VV30.
- Satellites launched on the flight
- 2 satellites
- 2026-09-15 · Observed
Methodology
ESA’s release says VV30 carried FLEX and Sentinel-3C.
Updated:
Subjects and places
Subject proposals
- Satellite technologySuggested
- Subject suggested from the title or summary: satellitewww.esa.int ↗
- Science and technologySuggested
- Preserved editorial category/topic; broad candidate onlywww.esa.int ↗