MILAN, Sept. 15, 2026 — Genenta Science S.p.A. announced that its strategic investment in Sòphia High Tech S.r.l. is contributing to the successful launch of the VEGA-C VV30 mission. The mission launched from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, at 03:21 CEST, carrying two Earth observation satellites built by Thales Alenia Space into a Sun-synchronous orbit.
Sòphia HT has been producing the Spring Assembly component since 2018, which plays a critical role in the separation of the launcher’s second and third stages. The VEGA-C mission is part of a series of launches that underscore the effectiveness of Italy’s aerospace sector.
Spring Assembly: A Key Component for Launch Success
The Spring Assembly, installed in the interstage between the Zefiro 40 second stage and the Zefiro 9 third stage, is crucial during the separation phase of flight. It helps in the controlled separation of the stages, ensuring that the mission continues under optimal conditions. When activated, the assembly releases stored elastic energy to enable a smooth separation, maintaining the necessary alignment and preventing unwanted rotation.
Both Pierluigi Paracchi, CEO of Genenta, and Antonio Caraviello, CEO of Sòphia HT, emphasized the importance of reliability and consistency in the production of the Spring Assembly. Every component must perform reliably under the demanding conditions of a launch, dealing with significant vibrations, temperature variations, and mechanical loads.
The precision engineering involved in the manufacturing of the Spring Assembly ensures that it meets strict tolerances and material requirements. This attention to detail contributes significantly to the success of European space missions like VEGA-C, which showcases the capabilities of Italy’s aerospace industry.
Genenta Science is currently evolving into Saentra Forge, focusing on consolidating specialized companies in sectors like aerospace and biotechnology. This transition aims to strengthen its position in strategic industries. Sòphia HT is recognized for its advanced manufacturing techniques, which include metal 3D printing and CNC machining, allowing it to meet the rigorous standards set by major aerospace organizations.
Why It Matters
The successful use of the Spring Assembly in the VEGA-C launch underscores the significance of precision engineering in the aerospace sector. As Italy continues to establish itself as a strong player in the global aerospace market, investments in companies like Sòphia HT may bolster the country’s ability to participate in future space missions and technological advancements.
