The European Space Agency today celebrated the maiden flight of its new Vega-C launch vehicle, which aims to bring more value to customers in the face of growing competition in putting satellites into orbit, according to AP NEWS.

A new European rocket launched the Italian satellite LARES-2, which looks like a giant disco ball, into orbit. It will serve as a target for a ground laser station.. In addition, six cube-shaped mini-satellites from France, Italy and Slovenia were launched into orbit along the way to conduct scientific experiments..

[see_also ids\u003d"

Vega-C is an upgraded Vega rocket that debuted in 2012 as a launch vehicle specialized in launching small payloads into space.. The new missile can carry a larger payload than its predecessor while using less fuel..

The ESA says Vega-C will be especially useful for launching Earth observation satellites, but it is also envisioned as a carrier for Space Rider, an uncrewed robotic laboratory that will be the agency's first reusable spacecraft..

The launch of a 35-meter-high rocket from French Guiana was twice delayed shortly before launch due to technical problems, but everything went well on the third attempt..

Vega-C accelerates much faster than its older brother Ariane-5, reaching speeds of 16,000 kilometers per hour within two minutes of launch.. Ariane-5, ESA's workhorse heavy launch vehicle, will also soon be upgraded.