Hanwha Systems has announced the successful launch of its self-developed “Small SAR Satellite” from the seas south of Jeju Island at exactly 2:00 p.m. on Dec. 4. This launch marks a significant milestone as it represents the first domestic development of such a satellite in South Korea. The launch vehicle was constructed based on the government’s previously developed solid-fuel rocket and orbital entry technology, showcasing a collaboration of government technical support and the private sector’s technological prowess.
Hanwha Systems plans to utilize the Small SAR Satellite for business-to-government (B2G) and business-to-business (B2B) services, including high-resolution satellite image analysis for environmental monitoring, data analysis for Geographic Information System (GIS) map production, and the automatic fusion and analysis of satellite imagery to create various added value.
The Small SAR Satellite developed by Hanwha Systems is unique in its integrated design, combining payload, body, and solar panels into one unit. This integration allows for maximizing the payload in the launch vehicle, significantly reducing launch costs. Eo Seong-cheol, CEO of Hanwha Systems, expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s a great honor that the space industry technology developed and accumulated through public funding is utilized by private companies for the convenience and safety of the public. Hanwha Systems will continue to expand its business domains to include private-led satellite development, manufacturing, launching, control, and services.”