Over the past six decades, outer space has evolved from a superpower-dominated arena to a strategic domain where emerging nations like Brazil seek technological autonomy and geopolitical influence. Despite launching its space programme (PEBR) in the 1960s, Brazil has struggled to develop a coherent space strategy, remaining dependent on foreign partnerships while facing chronic underfunding and institutional fragmentation. This chapter examines why Brazil struggles to formulate an effective contemporary space strategy. Analysing the period between 2000 and 2023, we demonstrate how international cooperation (e.g., CBERS with China, SGDC with France) delivered short-term gains but reinforced long-term dependency, as seen in Brazil’s inability to develop indigenous launch vehicles or maintain stable funding. Three structural barriers emerge: (i) erratic budgets; (ii) weak institutionalisation, with space policy subject to shifting political priorities rather than state-level planning; and (iii) geopolitical constraints. The analysis reveals a paradox: while Brazil’s equatorial location and regional stature offer natural advantages, its space programme remains disproportionately small compared to peers like India. Case studies of key projects (successful Amazonia-1 satellite vs. abandoned VLS launcher) illustrate how inconsistent commitment undermines strategic goals. The chapter concludes with policy implications for Global South nations, arguing that Brazil’s experience highlights the necessity of integrating space strategy with national development plans, securing cross-party political support, and balancing international partnerships with domestic capacity-building.