A multidisciplinary design optimization approach of a three stage solid propellant canister-launched launch vehicle is considered. A genetic algorithm (GA) optimization method has been used. The optimized launch vehicle (LV) is capable of delivering a microsatellite of 60 kg. to a low earth orbit (LEO) of 600 km. altitude. The LV design variables and the trajectory profile variables were optimized simultaneously, while a depleted shutdown condition was considered for every stage, avoiding the necessity of a thrust termination device, resulting in reduced gross launch mass of the LV. The results show that the proposed optimization approach was able to find the convergence of the optimal solution with highly acceptable value for conceptual design phase. © (2013) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.