Mysterious Disappearance of Fuel Tank Causes Delay in Last Vega Rocket Launch

The final launch of the Vega rocket, which is crucial for Arianespace and the European Space Agency's launch capabilities, has been delayed to September 2024 due to the unexpected problem of missing fuel tanks. The Vega-C, its successor, is also facing delays following launch and testing failures. The missing tanks for the Vega rocket's upper stage have been accidentally scrapped and crushed during building renovations. Two options are being considered: using older qualification tanks or modifying the existing AVUM stage with tanks from the Vega-C. The preferred option would result in a launch in September 2024, but there is a possibility that the Vega-C might return to flight before the final Vega launch.