South Korea's Nuri Rocket Launch Delayed to Late October

South Korea's Nuri rocket launch has been postponed from its original September target to late October. The delay stems from the need to replace and retest a thruster on the small cluster satellites scheduled for deployment. These satellites are crucial for monitoring the Korean Peninsula and responding to disasters.

The Nuri rocket's fourth launch in May was a success, marking the first time a privately built and assembled rocket completed its mission. This launch carried 13 satellites, including a main payload and 12 CubeSats, all of which successfully reached their orbits and established communication.

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The final launch date will be confirmed after deliberation by the launch management committee.

The postponement of the fifth launch, initially planned for June and later adjusted to August and September, allows for necessary adjustments to the satellite components. The satellites are being developed and manufactured by KAIST's Satellite Research Center and Satrec Initiative. Each of the five satellites will operate in a different orbit, requiring further checks.

The Aerospace Administration will finalize the launch date after a review by the launch management committee, which assesses the readiness of the rocket, satellites, and launch site, along with weather conditions and potential space debris collisions. Officials have stated that the thruster performance issues are believed to be resolved.

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We believe the thruster performance issues have been resolved.