The University of Brasilia and China’s Beihang University have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a joint laboratory for space propulsion. The ceremony was held in Brasília last week and was attended by the Brazilian Space Agency. The initiative strengthens scientific and technological co-operation between Brazil and China.

The future laboratory is expected to support research and development activities in space propulsion, as well as academic and scientific co-operation initiatives. Space propulsion encompasses the systems responsible for generating the force required to propel and control the movement of rockets, satellites and other space vehicles. During the meeting, representatives of the institutions discussed how the facility would operate and the possibilities for co-operation between the two universities.

The University of Brasilia already conducts research into rocket engines and advanced manufacturing. In 2026, the university tested a rocket engine manufactured using metal 3D printing, as part of work by its researchers in the field of propulsion.

Based in Beijing, Beihang University specialises in aeronautics and astronautics and has been strengthening its ties with Brazilian institutions. The Chinese university recently completed a training programme that brought together nearly 400 participants from the two countries. The establishment of the laboratory is expected to deepen this co-operation through joint projects, exchanges of researchers and other academic activities.

(Source: Agência Brasil China, 27 August)