Nuriho Additional Launch to Send Civilian Space Technology Performance Verification Satellite

Ministry of Science and ICT to Hold Briefing Session on the 16th

The government is actively utilizing the additional launches of Nuriho as a testing ground for domestic space components and technologies. This involves placing performance verification satellites equipped with space technologies and components developed by domestic private space companies into orbit to assist in testing in the space environment.

On the 16th, the Ministry of Science and ICT held an industry briefing at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) in Daejeon and announced plans to launch 'domestically produced device and component verification satellites' with this purpose.

The Nuri rocket performance verification satellite, which successfully reached orbit during the second launch last June. Not directly related to the article. Photo by KARI

The Ministry of Science and ICT established this plan to enhance domestic technological competitiveness related to devices and components used in extreme environments such as space. The first satellite is scheduled to be launched into orbit during the 4th Nuriho launch in 2025. The second satellite will be additionally produced and launched during the 5th Nuriho launch the following year, and the third during the 6th launch in 2027.

The first satellite will have its main body built by KARI, while companies will manufacture and mount the devices or components they wish to test on circuit boards to verify their normal operation and performance in the actual space environment. From the second satellite onward, the satellite main body will also be produced by private companies.

The Ministry of Science and ICT stated, "By providing testing opportunities in space, companies will be able to reduce development testing costs and shorten development periods," adding, "Utilizing Nuriho and verification satellites as testing grounds for domestically produced components will enhance the technological competitiveness of domestic companies and positively impact the market expansion of space devices and components."