Historical public archive
Nuri | CAS500-3 — Post-launch Report
Mission date: . Published: .
Provider: Korea Aerospace Research Institute · Vehicle: Nuri
Executive takeaway
CAS500‑3 demonstrates South Korea’s growing capability to field high‑resolution Earth‑observation satellites and validates the domestically developed Nuri launch vehicle, marking a step toward commercial launch services. The mission provides the Ministry of Science and ICT with advanced imaging for environmental monitoring, disaster response, and scientific research, enhancing South Korea’s data assets. Its successful launch signals increased competition in the global launch market, potentially reshaping commercial access to low‑Earth‑orbit.
Compute signal
CAS500‑3 carries the Advanced Electronic Image Scanning System – High Resolution (AEISS‑HR) optical imager, producing high‑resolution Earth‑observation data that is downlinked to ground stations. The satellite’s payload does not include onboard AI/ML, edge‑compute, or data‑relay functions, and its telemetry is standard. Thus the compute signal is limited to the generation of large EO data volumes.
Outcome
The launch on 26 Nov 2025 succeeded, establishing communications with ground stations and confirming the performance of the Nuri rocket and the CAS500‑3 payload. The outcome showcases South Korea’s ability to launch medium‑class satellites commercially, strengthening its position in the global launch services market.