VSB-30 rocket is successfully launched from the Alcântara Space Center (MA)
Equipment on board will perform experiments in microgravity
Model of the VSB30 rocket. Reproduction/FAB
The Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) successfully completed the launch of the VSB-30 rocket from the Alcântara Space Center, in Maranhão, through Operation Santa Branca.
The rocket carried on board the Microgravity Suborbital Platform Qualification Model (MQ-PSM), which will be used in scientific research. The next steps involve analyzing the results of the experiments.
The objective of the operation, carried out on Sunday (30), is to enable the country to offer companies and research institutes the possibility of experiments in microgravity.
In order to guarantee the complete success of Operation Santa Branca, several security measures were taken. For the population living in the CLA region, the FAB issued announcements alerting the entire population. In addition, fishermen and riverside residents were advised on fishing in the area. The same care was taken regarding the airspace, which was blocked for flights in the region.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Engineer Rogério Moreira Cazo, safety is the fundamental item for the success of the operation. In terms of organic matters, the Security and Defense Group (GSD) provided full escort of the rocket until it reached the vehicle’s integration area. “We carried out all area surveillance, with access and image control. We did perimeter work with the placement of barriers that could guarantee the total safety of everyone”, explained the Officer.
Regarding launch safety, care was taken with great care, mainly due to the fact that approximately 95% of the load was made up of fuel. In this matter, Lieutenant-Colonel Moreira reported that the Brazilian Space Program rocket works with solid fuel, so, to avoid incidents, electrostatic discharge tests were carried out and the launch area was completely isolated. “We monitored all possible issues that could occur and eliminated them all. Furthermore, we ensured that any situation was resolved and remedied. With all these precautions, we achieved our objective and the mission was a success”, he concluded.
Source: CNN
