DAEJEON – Daejeon's ambitious project to become a leading space city has taken a significant step forward. The city's first self-developed microsatellite, DaejeonSat, has been selected to be launched into space aboard the Nuri rocket's 5th mission in 2026. This achievement marks a milestone in Daejeon's efforts to foster a thriving space industry and establish itself as a hub for space technology.

DaejeonSat's selection as a secondary payload for the Nuri 5th launch was confirmed on February 11th. The selection process, conducted by the Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA) and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), recognized the potential of DaejeonSat to contribute to the advancement of space technology and promote the growth of the domestic space industry.

A Collaborative Effort

DaejeonSat is a CubeSat, a type of miniaturized satellite, being developed by a consortium of local Daejeon-based aerospace companies. This collaborative approach highlights the city's commitment to fostering partnerships and leveraging the expertise of its diverse aerospace ecosystem.

The consortium comprises five promising small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) specializing in various aspects of space technology:

Step Lab Co., Ltd.: Leading the project and providing expertise in space mechanical systems.
CSO Co., Ltd.: Developing the electro-optical camera, DaejeonSat's primary payload for Earth observation.
EPSTEC Co., Ltd.: Designing and operating the satellite's power system.
MID Co., Ltd.: Developing a large-capacity memory payload for space applications.
Contec Co., Ltd.: Providing ground control support for DaejeonSat using its extensive network of domestic and international ground stations.
In addition to these core members, numerous other local companies are contributing to the DaejeonSat project through component supply and subcontracting, further strengthening the city's space industry ecosystem.

Objectives and Impact

The primary objective of the DaejeonSat project is to verify the performance of locally developed components and technologies in the harsh environment of space. This in-orbit validation will provide crucial data and experience for Daejeon's space companies, enabling them to enhance their competitiveness and expand their presence in the domestic and international satellite markets.

The project also aims to stimulate the growth of the private space sector in Daejeon and create new revenue streams for local companies. By demonstrating the feasibility and potential of CubeSat technology, DaejeonSat will encourage further investment and innovation in the space industry, contributing to the city's vision of becoming a leading space hub.

Looking Ahead

Daejeon City plans to work closely with KASA and KARI to ensure the successful development and launch of DaejeonSat. The city is committed to providing ongoing support to the project team and fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovation and excellence in space technology.

The launch of DaejeonSat aboard the Nuri rocket in 2026 will be a momentous occasion for Daejeon and a testament to the city's dedication to advancing its space capabilities. This project will not only showcase the technological prowess of Daejeon's space companies but also inspire future generations of scientists and engineers to pursue careers in the exciting field of space exploration.

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