Synopsis
South Korea aims to adapt its next-generation space rocket into a reusable system by 2035, as stated by the Korea AeroSpace Administration. The plan was announced during the National Space Committee meeting and includes significant investments in research and development to enhance the nation’s aerospace capabilities.Key Takeaways
- South Korea is transitioning to a reusable space rocket.
- KASA aims for this technology by 2035.
- Lunar missions will still use non-reusable systems.
- Investment of 806.4 billion won in R&D this year.
- 43.3% increase in R&D budget from last year.
Seoul, Feb 25 (NationPress) South Korea is gearing up to adapt its next-generation space rocket into a reusable system and aims to achieve this technology by 2035, according to the state-run space agency announced on Tuesday.
As part of an updated strategy for the next-generation rocket development, the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) emphasized the importance of developing the essential core technologies that facilitate the reusability of the nation’s space rocket.
This initiative was disclosed during the third National Space Committee meeting, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
However, the agency noted that the plan for the country’s lunar mission scheduled for 2032 will still rely on a non-reusable launch system.
"We feel it is the appropriate moment to explore strategies for both launching a lunar lander autonomously and creating an economically sustainable (reusable) space launch vehicle," stated Yoon Young-bin, the head of KASA, earlier.
Nevertheless, discussions with current industry stakeholders, including Hanwha Aerospace Co., regarding the revision of this plan might pose challenges, as the project was initially aimed at creating a non-reusable system.
Yoon recognized potential complications regarding whether present contractors would continue with the project or if it would be opened to new participants, indicating that a thorough review is required.
Last month, the national space agency revealed plans to invest a total of 806.4 billion won (US$562.5 million) in research and development (R&D) projects this year, which is part of the initiative to position South Korea among the top five global leaders in the aerospace field.
This year’s R&D budget from KASA for 2025 reflects a 43.3 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Specifically, approximately 187.4 billion won will be allocated to R&D projects managed by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute and the Korea Astronomy & Space Science Institute.
Moreover, 147.8 billion won will be directed towards enhancing South Korea’s space rocket technologies, while 150.8 billion won will support the development of a next-generation space rocket, and 500 million won will be dedicated to developing reusable rocket technologies.
