The European Space Agency (ESA) has started test of the main engine for the Vega launch vehicle, ESA announced June 15. Test on the engine’s directional control already have been completed, the agency said.

The development program has been performing a series of tests on the first stage of the engine since May, which included testing the thrust vector control system that controls the pitch and yaw of the launcher during flight.

The tests are expected to last several more months with a motor static firing test scheduled to be conducted in Kourou, French Guiana, in the fourth quarter of 2006.