Space Rider

Vega-C, provided by Avio S.p.A, is set to launch the Space Rider mission from the Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana, on December 31, 2028, at 12:00 AM UTC. Avio S.p.A's launch of Vega-C will carry the Space Rider payload into Low Earth Orbit. Space Rider is the maiden flight of the European Space Reusable Integrated Demonstrator for Europe Return. Vega-C launch vehicle, as part of this mission, will be operated by Avio S.p.A to deliver the payload to its targeted orbit.

Aboard the rocket, Vega-C, the payload is a technology type, operated as part of the Space Rider mission, which is scheduled to be delivered into Low Earth Orbit by Avio S.p.A. The Space Rider mission serves as a demonstrator for European space technology, focusing on reusability and return capabilities, with Avio S.p.A's Vega-C launch vehicle playing a key role in achieving this objective. Avio S.p.A's launch of Vega-C will provide the necessary capabilities for the Space Rider mission to test its systems and demonstrate its reusability in Low Earth Orbit.