Rideshare service for light satellites to launch on Vega

© ESA – J. Huart

It was reported by the European Space Agency (ESA) on 12 June that Europe’s next Vega launch will premiere a new dispenser called the Small Spacecraft Mission Service, or SSMS. The vehicle will transport more than 50 satellites at once into orbit on the first rideshare mission dedicated to light satellites. Liftoff from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana is set for week commencing 14 June.