[Photo] Korean Space Launch Vehicle 'Nuriho' 1st Stage Engine 2nd Test Launch 'Success'

Close-up footage of the Nuriho first stage certification model integrated combustion test. Photo by Korea Aerospace Research Institute

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] On the afternoon of the 25th, the Korea Aerospace Research Institute successfully conducted the second combustion test of the first-stage engine of the Korean launch vehicle 'Nuriho' at the Naro Space Center in Goheung, Jeollanam-do.

The first-stage engine of Nuriho consists of a cluster of four 75-ton class liquid engines, requiring all four engines to ignite simultaneously and produce uniform thrust as if they were a single engine to fly on the correct trajectory. This demands sophisticated technology, making it the most critical technology in space launch vehicle development.

This test was conducted for 100 seconds, extended from the first test (30 seconds) carried out in January. It was performed in a way that verified the automatic launch software used during the actual launch. The Korea Aerospace Research Institute confirmed the performance and durability of the propulsion system throughout the entire process, verifying that the propellant was supplied normally to the engine and combustion proceeded stably.

Nuriho First Stage Certification Model Integrated Combustion Test Close-up Shot 2. Photo by Korea Aerospace Research Institute.

Nuriho 1st Stage Certification Model Comprehensive Combustion Test Long-Distance Filming Part 1. Photo by Korea Aerospace Research Institute.

Nuriho 1st Stage Certification Model Integrated Combustion Test Long-Distance Filming Part 2. Photo by Korea Aerospace Research Institute.