Key facts
- Launch date
- 14 September 2026
- Local time
- 22:21
- CEST time
- 03:21 on 15 September
- Rocket
- Vega-C (flight VV30)
- Payload
- FLEX and Copernicus Sentinel-3C
- Launch site
- Europe's Spaceport, French Guiana
Background
The European Space Agency (ESA) has issued a call for interest to media representatives wishing to attend the launch of the FLEX and Copernicus Sentinel-3C satellites. The launch will take place on a Vega-C rocket, designated flight VV30, from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana.
The mission is part of ESA's ongoing Earth observation programme, with FLEX (Fluorescence Explorer) and Copernicus Sentinel-3C set to be deployed together. The launch is expected to occur on 14 September 2026 at 22:21 local time, which corresponds to 03:21 CEST on 15 September.
Current situation
ESA has invited media representatives to express their interest in attending the media programme for the launch. The programme will be held at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana, the launch site for the Vega-C rocket.
The call for interest is part of ESA's standard procedure for media accreditation for significant launches. The exact schedule and details of the media programme have not yet been disclosed, but interested media are encouraged to respond to the call.
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Liftoff (local time) | 14 September 2026 | 22:21 |
| Liftoff (CEST) | 15 September 2026 | 03:21 |
Impacts
The launch will place two Earth observation satellites into orbit, which are expected to contribute to environmental monitoring and climate research. FLEX is designed to measure fluorescence from vegetation, while Sentinel-3C will continue the Copernicus programme's ocean and land monitoring.
Media coverage of the launch will provide public information about these missions and their scientific objectives. The event may also highlight the capabilities of the Vega-C rocket and Europe's access to space.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the launch proceeds as scheduled on 14 September 2026, the satellites will be deployed into their intended orbits, and mission operations will begin. The success of the launch could pave the way for further Vega-C missions and continued cooperation within the Copernicus programme.
Should there be any delays due to technical or weather issues, the launch would be rescheduled, and the media programme would be adjusted accordingly. ESA has not yet announced any contingency plans, so the timeline remains subject to change.
Once in orbit, FLEX and Sentinel-3C are expected to provide valuable data for scientists and policymakers. The full operational capability of the satellites may take several months to achieve after launch.
Source: European Space Agency
