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ESA\u2019s Vega-C rocket is complete on the launch pad at Europe\u2019s Spaceport and ready for liftoff, set for 4 December. The final element of the rocket, that includes the Sentinel-1C satellite that\u00a0will be launched\u00a0into space was installed on top of the 35-m launcher on 29 November \u2013 like a cherry on a cake.<\/p>\n
On launch day, the first three Vega-C stages will fire, burn through their fuel and be expended in rapid succession, enabling the rocket to reach space in just eight minutes. The fourth stage with Sentinel-1C will orbit Earth and prepare for release an hour and fifty minutes after liftoff.<\/p>\n
Although the components are stacked and ready on the launch pad, technicians are connecting, checking and testing right up until launch day. A final \u2018launch readiness review\u2019 will be held the day before liftoff, authorising Vega-C to be ignited and return to the skies.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n