Seoul - South Korea is poised to launch its first domestically developed earth observation nanosatellite this week, marking a significant step in its ambition to establish a satellite constellation by 2027.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the nanosatellite, dubbed NEONSAT-1, will be launched from Rocket Lab's spaceport in Mahia, New Zealand, on Wednesday at approximately 10:08 a.m. local time. NEONSAT-1, which weighs less than 100 kilograms, is the first of eleven planned nanosatellites designed to monitor and image the Korean Peninsula and adjacent waters.
The launch will see NEONSAT-1 deployed via Rocket Lab's Electron rocket, alongside NASA’s Advanced Composite Solar Sail System. South Korea’s future plans include launching additional nanosatellites in two phases: five in June 2026 and another five in September 2027. This initiative aims to enhance national safety through improved and constant satellite surveillance capabilities.