South Korea successfully completed the fifth launch of its domestically developed Nuri rocket on October 7, placing 15 satellites into orbit and expanding the country's demonstrated space transport capability. The mission included the first domestic deployment of a five-satellite cluster into its target orbit, according to the presidential office.
Launch managers set liftoff for 12:25 p.m. after reviewing the rocket's technical condition, weather, the space environment and possible collision risks. The successful deployment phase followed roughly 20 minutes after liftoff, when all satellite releases were completed without a reported delay or postponement.
A record payload reaches orbit
The mission carried more satellites than any previous Nuri flight. The presidential office said the five clustered satellites reached their intended orbit, a milestone that supports more coordinated satellite operations and adds evidence of the launch vehicle's reliability.
The fifth flight also advances South Korea's effort to shift launch activity toward greater private-sector participation. A presidential aide said the government had transferred substantial launch technology to industry, helping establish a foundation for domestic companies to enter the commercial launch market.
- Launch date
- October 7, 2026
- Scheduled liftoff
- 12:25 p.m.
- Payload
- 15 satellites
- Cluster deployment
- Five satellites placed into their target orbit
President Lee Jae Myung watched the launch live from his office with senior aides. Before liftoff, he asked about launch preparations and the functions of the satellites aboard the rocket. After success was confirmed, he applauded with officials and called for shorter intervals between launches so satellite technology could develop more quickly.
That request aligns with an expanded flight schedule. Nuri was originally slated to fly six times from 2021 through 2027, but the government added five missions extending through 2032 after increasing total program funding by 328 billion won. The presidential office said the current administration completed two launches within 17 months, compared with 36 months for two launches under the previous government.
More frequent missions could give rocket operators, satellite developers and suppliers additional opportunities to test systems and build operational experience. The policy significance now rests on whether the expanded schedule is carried out consistently and whether private companies convert transferred technology and recurring launch opportunities into a viable commercial service.