Two Earth observation satellites, FLEX and Copernicus Sentinel-3C, reached Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana on July 16, 2026, opening the launch campaigns for both spacecraft, the European Space Agency said. Liftoff aboard a Vega-C rocket is scheduled for September 2026.
French Guiana, on the northeastern coast of South America, hosts the spaceport that will serve as the departure point for the dual mission.
According to the European Space Agency, the arrival sets in motion a series of rigorous inspections by engineering and mission personnel. The satellites will also be mounted atop the Vega-C during the campaign, with preparation work continuing over the coming weeks before the scheduled liftoff.