South Korea’s Aerospace Research Institute successfully launched its first domestically developed nano-cluster satellite, NEONSAT-1. The satellite was released at an altitude of 500km, just 50 minutes after liftoff, and quickly communicated with the ground station in South Chungcheong Province, confirming its operational status.
Weighing less than 100 kilograms with a resolution of 1 meter, NEONSAT-1 is the first of 11 satellites planned to monitor the Korean Peninsula and surrounding waters. This satellite is part of a larger constellation project set to be completed by 2027.
The development of NEONSAT-1 was led by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), a state-run institution known for its innovative research and technology. KAIST plans to conduct testing on the satellite’s performance and optical payload in orbit for a month before beginning Earth observation missions in November.
This successful launch marks a significant milestone for South Korea’s space program, showcasing the country’s advancements in satellite technology. With NEONSAT-1 now in orbit, the nation is set to enhance its capabilities for monitoring and data collection in the region.
Stay tuned for updates on NEONSAT-1 as it embarks on its mission to provide valuable insights and information from above.
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