A European rocket successfully launched the advanced South Korean Earth-observation satellite, KOMPSAT-7, into orbit today, December 1, 2023. The satellite lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, aboard a Vega C rocket at 12:21 p.m. EST (17:21 GMT; 14:21 local time). This mission, designated VV28, marks a significant step in satellite technology and Earth observation capabilities.
The launch was managed by the French company Arianespace, which streamed the event live for audiences worldwide. The KOMPSAT-7 satellite, weighing approximately 3,990 pounds (1,810 kilograms), was developed by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute as a successor to the KOMPSAT-3A, which was launched in March 2015.
Advanced Technology for Earth Observation
KOMPSAT-7 is touted as “one of the world’s most advanced ultra-high-resolution optical satellites,” according to Arianespace’s press kit. The satellite is designed to enhance observational capabilities over the Korean Peninsula, catering to the increasing national demand for high-quality satellite imagery. One of its groundbreaking features includes optical data transmission technology, a first for a Korean satellite, allowing real-time processing of large volumes of Earth-observation imagery.
The satellite is equipped with advanced electro-optical modules and onboard storage and processing systems, which will significantly improve the efficiency and quality of data gathered from space. Such capabilities are crucial for various applications, including environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster response.
Details of the Launch and Orbit
Today’s launch was the sixth mission for the Vega C rocket, which stands 115 feet (35 meters) tall and was developed by the European Space Agency. Out of the five previous launches, four have been successful, with the only failure occurring during the rocket’s second mission in December 2022.
If the mission proceeds as planned, KOMPSAT-7 will be deployed approximately 44 minutes after liftoff into a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) at an altitude of 358 miles (576 kilometers) above Earth. Satellites in SSO travel over the Earth’s poles, ensuring they pass over the same geographic area at the same solar time each day. This consistent solar positioning enhances the quality of the imagery collected, making sun-synchronous orbits a preferred choice for Earth-observing satellites.
The successful deployment of KOMPSAT-7 represents a significant advancement in the realm of satellite technology and Earth observation, further solidifying the role of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute in global space exploration efforts.
