MLBR rocket advances toward 2027 orbital launch in Brazil

The Brazilian MLBR rocket has reached a significant milestone by receiving the ‘Carteira de Habilitação’ from the Brazilian Space Agency (AEB). This certification is a key step toward integrating the vehicle into the National Program of Space Activities (PNAE).

Led by the company CENIC, the project has primarily been supported by funding from the Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos (Finep). Ralph Correa, director of CENIC, stated that integrating the PNAE provides a long-term perspective that allows existing knowledge and investments to transform into effective national capacity.

The next phase for the MLBR is obtaining the ‘Carteira de Execução’, which will officially include the rocket in the national space mission portfolio. The project aims to develop operational capacity for launching small satellites to compete in the international market, with a target launch date set for 2027. Currently, manufactured equipment is undergoing rigorous testing against vibration, high temperatures, and strong acceleration.