South Korea's Nuri rocket lifts off on fifth mission with 15 satellites
South Korea's domestically built Nuri launch vehicle launched Wednesday from Naro Space Center, carrying 15 satellites toward a sun-synchronous orbit about 575 km high.
On Wednesday, South Korea’s home-grown Nuri launch vehicle (KSLV-II) lifted off from the second launch pad at the Naro Space Center in Goheung, South Jeolla-Gwangju Province at 12:25 p.m. The three-stage rocket is set to place a mixed payload of 15 satellites into a sun-synchronous orbit roughly 575 km above Earth. During ascent, the vehicle will jettison its first stage, payload fairing and second stage in order before deploying the satellites.
The primary payload comprises five microsatellites that will operate as a constellation to deliver high-resolution imaging of the Korean Peninsula. Additionally, ten CubeSats will conduct research on pharmaceuticals, industrial parts, space radiation effects and measurements of Earth’s magnetic field. This launch marks Nuri’s fifth flight, highlighting South Korea’s expanding independent space capability.
Why it matters
The launch demonstrates South Korea's growing ability to independently access and utilize space for observation and research.
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