The European Space Agency (ESA) test fired the second stage motor for the Vega launch vehicle, ESA announced June 26. The test of the Zefiro 23, built by Avio, was performed at the Italian Ministry of Defence test center in Salto di Quirra, Sardinia.

Earlier in June, ESA began testing the main engine for the Vega launch vehicle. The first Vega flight is set for the end of 2007, ESA said.