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VV29: Final steps before lift-off
The launch campaign for the VV29 mission is entering its final phase at Europe’s spaceport. Here’s a closer look at the latest operations.
With just a few days to go before the launch of the VV29 mission, scheduled for 19 May 2026, ground crews are making final preparations on the Vega-C launch facilities at Europe’s spaceport.
These new images capture several key stages of the campaign: encapsulation of the Smile satellite within the fairing, its transfer to the launch area, and the hoisting of the assembly to the top of the Vega-C launch vehicle.
Acting as a protective shield during the ascent through the Earth’s atmosphere, the fairing will protect the satellite until it separates in flight a few minutes after lift-off. The Smile mission will then continue its journey into space aboard the upper stages of the launch vehicle.
To find out how to watch the lift-off, click here.
Photo gallery of the final steps
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