Brazil Satellites CubeSat Opportunities
The Brazilian CubeSat market has experienced significant growth, fueled by the increasing affordability of advanced technologies and robust government support for research and innovation.
Universities, research centers, and startups are playing a pivotal role in this dynamic sector. Institutions such as the Aeronautical Technologic Institute (ITA), Brasilia University, Santa Maria Federal University (UFSM), National Institute of Space Research (INPE), Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) and several private Brazilian space companies have been actively developing nanosatellite and CubeSat projects in recent years, with continued activity expected in the near future.
These Brazilian universities and research institutions have a strong demand for specialized parts and components, including payload controllers, digital radio receivers, propulsion systems, cameras, and other technologies essential for CubeSats and nano satellites. This demand presents opportunities for collaboration with U.S. suppliers.
Key Brazilian nanosatellite and CubeSat programs include:
- NanoSatC-BR: A program led by INPE and UFSM focused on developing nanosatellites. Two missions have already been launched, with a third currently under development.
- ITASAT-1: A CubeSat developed by ITA in collaboration with the Brazilian Space Agency and INPE.
- ITASAT-2: A joint Brazil-United States mission designed to study ionospheric phenomena in low Earth orbit and demonstrate geolocation capabilities.
- GOLDS_UFSC: A 2U CubeSat developed by Santa Catarina Federal University. This project involves designing and operating a CubeSat system in a space environment while providing students with hands-on experience in radio communications, digital communications, radio electronics, and antenna systems.
- VCUB1: Visiona (Embraer–Telebrás JV) launched VCUB1 in 2023, the first Earth Orbit/data-collection nanosat designed by a Brazilian company.
Several other nanosatellite and CubeSat projects focused on Earth observation are currently under development through partnerships between the private sector, Brazilian government entities, and universities.
Brazil’s nanosat ecosystem is moving from single university missions to repeat programs and commercial imaging/data services, creating steady demand for CubeSat components, ground segment gear, and mission software. For additional information on identifying business opportunities in Brazil’s space sector, please contact Daniele Andrews, Senior Commercial Specialist for the defense and space sector at the U.S. Embassy in BrasÃlia: daniele.andrews@trade.gov.