The vision of the Complete Brazilian Space Mission (MECB), established in 1978, symbolizes Brazil’s national goal of demonstrating to the world its capability to access space independently. Today, BIZU Space stands as a key contributor to this long-standing ambition through its work on the Micro Lançador BRasileiro (MLBR).
At the end of 2023, Brazil made significant progress toward this goal when Finep (Funding Authority for Studies and Projects) and the Brazilian Space Agency (AEB/MCTI) signed two contracts for national launch vehicle development, beginning in 2024. These initiatives aim to fulfil the national space aspiration within a challenging three-year timeframe, including the launch of two prototypes.
The MLBR project unites eight Brazilian companies in developing a 12-meter rocket capable of placing 40kg satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Within this collaborative framework, Bizu Space focuses on mission planning and advanced propulsion technology—two critical components for orbital success.
In partnership with CENIC Engenharia, Bizu Space conducts comprehensive mission planning, including flight mechanics, trajectory simulations, and safety analyses. The team utilizes sophisticated tools to develop flight safety simulations that comply with Brazilian Space Agency standards, ensuring each launch meets rigorous safety requirements.
Perhaps Bizu’s most significant contribution lies in its development of liquid propulsion technology. The company is creating an innovative liquid-fueled upper stage designed to replace the MLBR’s solid-fueled third stage. This advancement aims to improve orbital precision and increase payload capacity—essential factors for positioning Brazil competitively in the growing small satellite market.
The propulsion system employs concentrated hydrogen peroxide and aviation kerosene (Jet-A), selected after thorough analysis for their cost-effectiveness and stability characteristics. To support this technological development, Bizu has established foundational infrastructure including an in-house peroxide concentrator and a test field constructed in partnership with UNIVAP university.
Brazil’s aerospace foundation provides fertile ground for space sector growth. The country’s established aeronautical industry, anchored by Embraer—the world’s third-largest commercial aircraft manufacturer—demonstrates Brazil’s capacity to develop sophisticated aerospace technologies and compete internationally.
With strategic public-private partnerships, Brazil could nurture a thriving commercial space ecosystem. Companies like Bizu Space represent the initial building blocks of this nascent industry, which has potential not only to achieve national space autonomy but also to secure Brazil’s position in the rapidly expanding global space market.
Made in Brazil Micro-Launcher: How Bizu Space Advances National Space Independence
