Nuriho's Fateful Day... KT Supports Communication Lines, SKT Broadcasts in Metaverse

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] Telecommunications companies have stepped up to support the successful launch of the Korean-type launch vehicle Nuriho (KSLV-II).

KT announced that it has provided stable communication lines at the Naro Space Center in Goheung, Jeollanam-do, and strengthened security for key transmission facilities to support the Nuriho launch scheduled for the 21st.

Nuriho is the first Korean-type launch vehicle made purely with Korean technology over a long period of 12 years. It is evaluated that providing perfect communication services is crucial for the achievement of this long-term technological development and research to lead to a successful launch.

KT is fully responsible for the stable operation of the Nuriho launch communication network and supports the configuration of broadcast lines so that this historic event can be smoothly relayed worldwide. To this end, KT has completed dualization of single transmission route sections and additionally opened a wireless (Microwave) backup network that can be used in emergencies. Currently, the Naro Space Center leases and operates KT communication lines to carry out space launch vehicle missions.

In addition, KT has strengthened security for key transmission facilities. From three days before the launch, KT requested the suspension of various construction works that could affect communication lines in cooperation with related agencies. Furthermore, KT prepared wireless network congestion countermeasures in anticipation of crowds gathering at the space launch observatory and Namyeol Beach, the best places to view the Nuriho launch.

Seochangseok, Executive Director of KT Jeonnam-Jeonbuk Regional Headquarters, said, "The launch of Nuriho, made purely with our country's technology, is expected to be the starting signal for the 'K-Space Era' and a stepping stone for a great leap forward in Korea's space industry," adding, "KT will continue to spare no communication support for the development of the space industry."

SK Telecom will broadcast the Nuriho launch scenes on its metaverse platform Ifland in collaboration with Galaxy Corporation, a metaverse avatar specialist company.

The event will be held on a special cheering stage for Nuriho within Ifland. The program includes ▲Introduction to Nuriho ▲Countdown one minute before launch ▲Viewing of the Nuriho launch video ▲Celebration performance for the successful launch. Famous singers such as Wonstein, Lee Jihoon, Kim Sungsoo, The One, and Shin Inseon will participate via video for the celebration performance.

Yang Maengseok, head of SK Telecom's metaverse business, said, "It is an honor to share this historic moment in the history of Korean science and technology on Ifland," adding, "We are pleased to cheer for the leap to a space power together with Ifland users."

Space launch vehicles are considered one of the epitomes of Big Science, involving hundreds of scientists and engineers. In this launch, the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) will attempt to launch Nuriho carrying a 1.5-ton mock satellite (dummy satellite) on its third stage.

KARI, the launch executing agency, has been performing mission tasks such as propellant control through the launch control command center since 10 a.m. and is awaiting the launch command. The first Nuriho launch is scheduled between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., with 4 p.m. being the most likely time if no major variables occur.