Nuri-Launched Nanosatellites Capture Earth Image Within 14 Hours

The Korea AeroSpace Administration and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology announced on October 15 that the Nanosatellite Constellation, launched on October 7, had successfully captured its first Earth observation image 14 hours and 29 minutes after launch. Satellite No. 4, responsible for the image, captured a view of the Cleveland area in Ohio, United States, on October 8.

The early image acquisition is a crucial sign that the satellite platform and optical payload functioned as intended shortly after launch. All five Nanosatellites, No. 2 through No. 6, which were manufactured through a mass-production technique, are currently maintaining seamless communication with ground stations. Major systems, including power generation and attitude control, are also operating normally.

This achievement can be attributed to the prior operational expertise gained from a previously launched prototype and verification satellite. The use of an automation concept tailored for constellation operations is believed to have significantly reduced the time required for the satellites to stabilize in orbit and commence initial operations.

The Korea AeroSpace Administration and KAIST intend to commence full-scale initial operations once payload conditions have been verified, with the goal of forming the constellation in stages to position the five satellites at regular intervals. Upon completing the initial operations phase next year, satellite operation authority will be transferred to the National Satellite Operation Center in Jeju.

The satellite image data generated will be utilized in various public service areas, including national security and disaster response. Oh Tae-seok, the administrator of the Korea AeroSpace Administration, considered the outcome as a significant demonstration of the stable operation of nanosatellites produced domestically.