ESA · Space

FLEX and Sentinel-3C Launch on Vega-C

The European Space Agency's FLEX satellite and the Copernicus Sentinel-3C satellite are set to launch together on a Vega-C rocket from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana on September 15th. Live coverage begins at 02:50 CEST.

FLEX will study plant health by measuring the faint fluorescence emitted during photosynthesis, providing global maps of vegetation fluorescence to understand plant stress and carbon/water movement. Sentinel-3C will continue monitoring Earth's oceans, land, ice, and atmosphere, supporting forecasting and understanding of global processes.

The two satellites are launching together on the Vega-C rocket. Sentinel-3C will be deployed first, followed by FLEX. FLEX will orbit in tandem with an existing Sentinel-3 satellite, combining data for an enhanced view of vegetation function.

Vega-C is an evolution of Europe's Vega rockets, capable of launching 2300 kg into space. It ensures Europe's independent access to space, complementing the Ariane family of rockets.

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