An important step towards Brazil’s inclusion in a select group of countries with the capacity to launch space vehicles. This Thursday (25/08), in Brasilia (DF), the ceremony to mark the signing of the contract between the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) and the Canadian company C6 took place. Built-in launch systemsone of those selected to be operated at the Alcântara Space Center (CEA), in Maranhão.

The contract is a consequence of the Public Call Notice No. 02/2020 of the Brazilian Space Agency (AEB), of May 22, 2020, and its objective is to make available goods and services for the launch of space vehicles, from Area 3 of the Alcântara Space Center, known as the Wind Profiler Area.

The ceremony was presided over by the Commander of Aerospace Operations (COMAE), Air Lieutenant Brigadier Heraldo Luiz Rodrigues. Also participating were general officers from the Air Force High Command; General Officers of the Air Force; the President of the Brazilian Space Agency, Colonel Carlos Augusto Teixeira de Moura, and representatives of C6 Launch Systems and Services of Brazil and, via videoconference, the President and CEO of C6 Built-in launch systemsRichard McCammon.

On this occasion, Brigadier General Heraldo highlighted the importance of signing the contract for Brazil’s effective entry into the space race. “Today, with the signing of this contract, a giant step has been taken towards exploration at the Alcântara Launch Center. At the same time, the Brazilian Space Agency has collaborated with the Aeronautical Command to sign agreements that allow commercial exploration of Alcântara,” he added.

Richard McCammon stressed that the partnership will have a positive impact on the local and national economies. He also informed that the first launch is expected to take place in the first half of 2024. He also stressed that the contract is an important step that expands the cooperation and partnership between the Brazilian Air Force, the Brazilian Space Agency and other local agencies, developing the space segment in Brazil.

Click on here and watch the video of the article.

Video: Sergeant Mônica / CECOMSAER

Photos: Sergeant P. Silva / CECOMSAER

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