"Countdown Begins: Europe's Decision on Space Launch Restart Imminent"

European space officials are facing crucial timing decisions in the coming weeks regarding the return to flight of Europe's flagship space launchers. The inaugural launch of the Ariane 6 has been delayed until next year, while the Vega C's return to service in 2023 has been hampered by a failed test. The Russian Soyuz program was also interrupted last year. Europe is working to close the gap in launch capability as competition in the commercial launch market intensifies. The European Space Agency plans to set a launch window for the Ariane 6 in early October, with a test debut expected in 2024. The timing for Vega C's return to operation will be determined later this month.