| T-07:45:00 |
Start of Countdown |
| The final countdown begins with functional checks of the rocket. |
|
| T-06:45:00 |
Verification of Communications Links |
| Launch controllers verify communications, tracking and telecommand links between the Vega rocket and ground facilities at the Guiana Space Center. |
|
| T-05:40:00 |
Launcher Powered On |
| Systems on the Vega launcher are powered on for health checks. |
|
| T-04:20:00 |
Inertial Platform Alignment |
| The 98-foot-tall rocket's inertial navigation platform is aligned for flight. |
|
| T-02:40:00 |
Gantry Rollback |
| The mobile service gantry, which stands 16 stories tall, is retracted about 260 feet away from the Vega rocket at the ZLV launch complex at the Guiana Space Center. |
|
| T-00:44:00 |
Ready for Final Countdown |
| Engineers conduct another check of Vega's systems before the beginning of the computer-controlled synchronized sequence. |
|
| T-00:03:30 |
Start of Synchronized Sequence |
| Computers assume command of the countdown in the final minutes, making thousands of checks to ensure all systems are ready for liftoff. |
|
| T-00:00:00 |
Ignition |
| Ignition of the Vega's solid-fueled P80 first stage motor, followed by liftoff 0.3 seconds later. |
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