South Korea's First Geostationary Multi-Purpose Satellite
A Major Contributor to Advancements in Meteorological, Ocean, and Communication Technologies
Chollian Satellite 1 (COMS), South Korea's first geostationary multi-purpose satellite, will retire from service after successfully completing its 16-year mission.
The Space Agency announced on December 9 that the second Chollian Satellite Operations Committee had reviewed and approved the agenda for the termination and disposal of Chollian Satellite 1. As a result, the satellite will officially enter its disposal phase starting in April 2026, following the conclusion of its seventh mission extension.
Launched in June 2010, Chollian Satellite 1 far exceeded its seven-year design life by operating for approximately 16 years, carrying out meteorological and ocean observation missions as well as serving as a testbed for communication relay. It is regarded as a symbolic satellite that ushered in a new era for Korea's space development. Chollian Satellite 1 was the first in the country to provide broadband communication and satellite broadcasting test services via a geostationary satellite, laying the foundation for the commercialization of satellite communications technology. Its communications mission will be succeeded by Chollian Satellite 3, which is currently under development.
In the field of meteorology, Chollian Satellite 1 significantly improved the accuracy of forecasts for disaster-related weather phenomena such as typhoons and heavy rainfall. In the area of ocean observation, it provided diverse data on changes in the southern and western seas, red tide occurrences, and pollution monitoring, thereby contributing to national disaster response and public safety. These roles are now being carried out with enhanced capabilities by Chollian Satellite 2A (meteorology) and 2B (ocean observation).
The disposal process for Chollian Satellite 1 will follow the international community's 'space debris mitigation guidelines.' The Space Agency and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute stated that Chollian 1 will be safely moved out of the geostationary protected zone (altitude 35,786 km ± 200 km) around July 2026, after which its operations will be permanently terminated. This measure is in compliance with international standards aimed at preserving the space environment and ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities.
Yoon Youngbin, Commissioner of the Space Agency, emphasized, "Chollian Satellite 1 is a monumental achievement that laid the foundation for Korea's self-reliance in space technology and the utilization of satellite data. Not only did it accomplish its mission successfully, but the responsible decision to dispose of the satellite also demonstrates our active participation in the international community's pursuit of sustainable space environment management."
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