South Korea’s Nuri Rocket Successfully Launches 15 Satellites Into Orbit

South Korea’s Nuri rocket reached an altitude of 575 kilometers. It then released 15 satellites, marking another successful mission for the country’s growing space program.

South Korea’s Nuri rocket soared into orbit successfully on Wednesday. The rocket carried 15 satellites and reached its planned altitude of 575 kilometers. Korea Aerospace Research Institute, known as KARI, broadcast the entire mission live.

Liftoff From Naro Space Center

The Nuri rocket launched at 12:25 pm local time on Wednesday. That converts to 6:25 am Moscow time. It lifted off from Naro Space Center, located in southern Korea on the Korean Peninsula.

Stage Separation Went Smoothly

The first stage separated roughly two minutes after liftoff. The second stage followed at the four minute thirty second mark. Right after that, the third stage engine ignited as planned.

Nuri Rocket Reaches Its Target Height

Twelve minutes and thirty seconds after launch, Nuri reached its target altitude of 575 kilometers. It then started releasing its satellite payload one by one.

Five Mini Satellites Deploy First

Five Neonsat micro satellites separated first, spaced roughly 35 to 40 seconds apart. These satellites will monitor natural disasters and support national security needs. All five deployed successfully by 12:41 pm local time, which is 6:41 am Moscow time.

Ten Cubesats Follow Right After

Next, ten cubesats released at ten second intervals each. All ten separated completely by 12:42 pm local time, matching 6:42 am Moscow time.

What Happens To The Rocket Now

Nuri is expected to perform a collision avoidance maneuver next. It will then dump its remaining fuel. Afterward, the rocket will reenter the atmosphere and burn up completely.

A Quick Look Back At The Last Launch

The previous Nuri rocket mission happened on November 26, 2025. That flight carried the CAS500-3 satellite for space science research. It also deployed twelve additional cubesats during that mission.

South Korea’s Bigger Space Ambitions

South Korea is rapidly expanding its space program. Officials plan more Nuri rocket launches over the coming years. They are also developing a reusable launch vehicle for future missions. By 2030, South Korea aims to land its first small spacecraft on the Moon.