Feature Stories

Naro Space Center in South Korea

The Naro Space Center, started as part of a national space development program, is now beginning to take shape on Oenaro Island off the southwestern part of the Korean Peninsula. Korea's first space center will cover almost five million square meters (53,375,000 sq. ft) of land.

During its first phase the space center will perform its first mission, launching the Korean Scientific Satellite II (100 kg) with a small space launch vehicle. In the second phase, the space center will expand its capability to launch medium-sized space launch vehicles by 2015.

The space center will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities such as a launch complex including storage and supply facilities for liquid propellants, an assembly complex, tracking and controlling facilities, a ground test facility and other facilities.

Also operating a visitor center, the space center will play host to thousands of guests from all over the country, telling the story of Korea' past, present and future challenges regarding space.

By providing all these facilities and this infrastructure, the space center will play a central role in Korea's space development.

Story by Mr. Jeongwon Lee, Senior Administrator of the Policy Studies & International Relations Department of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).