INNOSPACE has entered the final preparation phase for its first commercial satellite launch, marking a major milestone for South Korea’s private space sector.
The SPACEWARD mission, using the HANBIT-Nano launch vehicle, is scheduled for December 17 at 3:45 pm local time in Brazil (December 18 at 3:45 am KST, 5:45 am AEDT). The launch window extends from December 16 through December 22. The mission will be conducted from INNOSPACE’s dedicated launch platform at the Alcântara Space Center, operated by the Brazilian Air Force.
Transportation of the HANBIT-Nano launch vehicle to the launch pad is set to begin on December 15 (BRT), followed by a series of final pre-launch operations. These will include vehicle erection, umbilical connections for propellant loading, power and data interfaces, instrumentation signal verification, and leak and isolation-valve checks within the propellant loading system.
On launch day, a comprehensive final readiness review will be carried out in coordination with the Brazilian Air Force, covering weather conditions and overall technical readiness. Upon final approval, propellant loading will commence and the mission will proceed into the full launch countdown sequence.
Satellite integration for customers in Brazil and India has been completed without issues, with the SPACEWARD mission declared fully prepared. A total of eight payloads have been integrated, including five small satellites for orbital deployment and three non-separation experimental payloads, all housed within the upper fairing and designated structural sections of the launch vehicle.
Through the SPACEWARD mission, INNOSPACE aims to become the first Korean private company to deploy customer satellites into low Earth orbit. The mission targets an orbit at approximately 300 kilometres altitude with a 40-degree inclination, while also conducting in-flight experimental payload missions.
Founder and chief executive Soojong Kim said the launch represents a significant step for Korea’s commercial launch ambitions.
“Our first commercial launch holds strong symbolic significance as it marks the start of space transportation services using a launch vehicle independently developed by a Korean private company,” Kim said. “Our entire team has been dedicated to every phase, from development through to operations, and we will carry that commitment through to the final moments of the launch countdown.”
