Vega is a programme of the European Space Agency (ESA) geared to developing a launcher for small and medium satellites. It is an integral part of the strategy adopted by ESA to provide Europe with independent access to space, mated to the degree of flexibility and affordability needed to meet the requirements of institutional and private customers. In particular, Vega was designed to place small satellites - such as those used by universities, research centres and private enterprises for scientific purposes - in low orbits, at none-too-high costs. Together with the rockets used to lift off big and medium payloads, Ariane 5 and Soyuz, Vega is part of the family of European launchers on which Arianespace, the world's most important commercial launch service provider, has founded its sales strategy.
The programme is financed for the most part by Italy (65%), followed by France (12.43%), Belgium (5.63%), Spain (5%), the Netherlands (3.5%), Switzerland (1.34%) and Sweden (0.8%). Its development has been entrusted to Elv.
The rocket, 30 m tall, 3 m in diameter and weighing 137 tons, has been designed to accomplish a wide range of missions, involving circular orbits at different altitudes, from 300 to 1500 km, at slants from 5° to 100°. With a payload capacity of between 300 and 1500 kg, it can orbit up to six satellites per launch. After the first qualification launch, Arianespace will commence its marketing activities. Launch frequency is expected to increase from two to four per year.