SMILE Mission with Vega-C: Key technologies from Beyond Gravity enable precise satellite launch

The SMILE mission, equipped with high-tech components from Switzerland and Sweden, is set to launch soon. Beyond Gravity is supplying essential systems for the Vega-C launch, including the payload adapter, payload fairing, acoustic protection system, and on-board computer. These components will ensure that the SMILE satellite safely navigates the launch phase, is deployed with precision, and can begin its mission: the most comprehensive observation to date of the interaction between the solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field.

With its key technologies, the space company Beyond Gravity is supporting the launch of the SMILE mission, a joint project of the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). When the Vega-C rocket lifts off from the spaceport in French Guiana in May, key components of the launch system will come from Beyond Gravity: the Payload Adapter System developed in Linköping, the payload fairing manufactured in Emmen - including the acoustic protection system - and the on-board computer from Gothenburg, which controls the rocket through all phases of flight. These highly specialized systems ensure that the SMILE satellite is protected, separated precisely, and maneuvered reliably into its planned orbit.

The Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) mission aims to provide the first comprehensive view of how the solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field interact. This will deliver fundamental insights for space weather research. "We are proud that our technologies are part of a mission that will significantly deepen our understanding of the fundamental processes between the sun and Earth," says Stefan Hofmann, Managing Director of Beyond Gravity Switzerland. "With our systems for Vega-C, we are contributing significantly to European space exploration and to ensuring the security of modern infrastructure that can be affected by space weather events."

The foundation of the SMILE launch: long-standing cooperation with Avio

The collaboration between Beyond Gravity and the Italian rocket manufacturer Avio is a key factor in the success of the SMILE mission. Avio is developing the Vega-C on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA), and Beyond Gravity has supplied key technologies for this rocket for many years.

"This mission continues our long-standing and successful partnership with Avio. Several of our core systems play a crucial role in safely and reliably placing the payload into orbit," Hofmann emphasizes. "The SMILE launch once again demonstrates the technological strength and mutual trust that characterize our collaboration with Avio."

Payload Adapter System: Precise Connection Between Rocket and Satellite

Developed in Linköping, the Payload Adapter System forms the central mechanical and structural interface between the Vega-C rocket and the SMILE payload. Its lightweight, modular design and integrated separation and damping mechanisms enable precise, low-vibration separation of the satellite - a critical moment for the mission.

Payload Fairing: Protection for Sensitive Space Instruments

Manufactured in Emmen, the payload fairing protects satellites from extreme thermal, acoustic, and mechanical stresses during launch.

This nine-meter-long, two-piece structure is made of carbon-fiber-reinforced composite material and features an automatic pyrotechnic separation system. This system ensures the fairing is jettisoned precisely in the upper atmosphere. Its aerodynamic shape is tailored to the Vega-C's requirements and supports efficient flight performance.

Acoustic Protection: Reduced Noise, Increased Safety

The Fairing Acoustic Protection (FAP) system mitigates the extreme noise levels generated during rocket launches. The sound-absorbing elements inside the payload fairing significantly reduce the impact of noise on sensitive satellite technology, providing crucial protection for SMILE’s delicate instruments.

The On-Board Computer: The Brain of the Vega-C

Developed by Beyond Gravity in Gothenburg, the on-board computer serves as the central processing unit that controls all critical phases of the Vega-C’s flight. It coordinates the avionics system, manages automated sequences, and ensures the rocket precisely follows its calculated trajectory and reliably deploys the satellite.

Vega-C: Europe’s Modern Launch Vehicle

Developed by the Italian aerospace company Avio on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA), the Vega-C is an advanced version of the successful Vega rocket. With a payload capacity of up to 2,300 kilograms for transport to polar orbits, the Vega-C offers higher performance, efficiency, and flexibility. The Vega-C thus plays a key role in strengthening Europe's independent access to space, which is crucial for scientific missions such as SMILE, as well as institutional and commercial operations.