The National Institute of Environmental Research will invest 47.3 billion KRW to develop and launch five mini observation satellites to monitor greenhouse gases by 2027.
On the 2nd, the National Institute of Environmental Research announced that it will officially proceed with the development project of Korea's first greenhouse gas observation satellites after completing related research, in accordance with the '1st National Carbon Neutrality and Green Growth Basic Plan.'
The greenhouse gas observation satellites will orbit in low Earth orbit below 600 km altitude and monitor concentrations of representative greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. They are expected to play roles in identifying emission source locations, estimating emission volumes, supporting greenhouse gas reduction efforts by national and local governments, and assisting in establishing climate crisis adaptation measures. Weighing less than 50 kg, the five satellites will operate as a cluster considering the observation coverage. The first satellite is scheduled to be launched in 2027, with the remaining four launched by 2028.
The satellite development will be conducted in cooperation with Hanwha Systems. Hanwha Systems is a defense industry company possessing satellite-related technologies such as electro-optical cameras and infrared sensors. The Ministry of Environment explained, "This project is being promoted in line with the government's New Space policy to revitalize private space development."
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