Vega one step nearer   The end product of the inert casting of the Vega P80 first stage seen from above. The two colours, white and green, are given to the propellant to detect any defects caused by recoil. Inert casting trial     A team from Avio S.p.A., led by Massimo Epifani (2nd from the right) came to Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana to prepare for the inert casting of Vega's P80 first stage Release date: 30 May 2004