VLM (rocket)


The VLM is a proposed three-stage satellite launcher being developed by the Brazilian General Command for Aerospace Technology in collaboration with Germany. The project originated in 2008 as a simplified version of the VLS-1 rocket, using only the core stages.
A version based on the S-50 rocket engine is being developed, with the objective of launching satellites of up to 150 kg into equatorial circular orbits at 300 km altitude.

Development history

Development on VLM started in 2008 for the purpose of low-cost and reliable launch of microsatellites. Initially, a four-stage rocket using solid fuel was proposed, arranged in the following order:
It was later decided in 2011 to build a precursor single-stage rocket bearing a new engine called S-50. The vehicle is being developed and its engine tested in collaboration with the German Space Agency. This precursor test is called VS-50 and is planned for launch in 2019. The VS-50 vehicle measures long, in diameter, and has a mass of about 15 tons.
All launches are planned to take place from the Alcântara Launch Center, located on Brazil's northern Atlantic coast.

VLX family

When the VLM design and tests are completed to satisfaction, it is planned to develop a larger rocket family called VLX, targeting the delivery of payloads of between 300 and 500 kg to low Earth orbit. The VLX family will include two launchers named Aquila 1 and Aquila 2. An early concept calls for two lateral S-50 engines configured as strap-on boosters. A new liquid fuel engine, called L-75, is being designed for this launcher family. It is hoped that the maiden flight of Aquila 1 will take place in 2023, and that of Aquila 2 in 2026.

VLM-1

The VLM-1 vehicle is designed to deliver up to payloads to a 300 km equatorial circular orbit. VLM-1 is projected to have a total mass of, including 10 tons of propellant. The first two stages will use the S-50 solid fuel engine, with the third using the same S-44 engine as in the VS-40 sounding rocket.
In the future, the L5 liquid fuel rocket engine will replace the solid 3rd stage engine. The configuration will be:
The qualification flight is VLM-1.
#VehiclePayloadDateLaunch site
1VLM-1
Qualification2019
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2VLM V-01SHEFEX III2021
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