South Korea recently joined the race of countries for space travels and adventures. The Korean nation has launched its very first domestic space rocket on Thursday, named Nuri. However, this domestically-developed space rocket is the country’s first-ever rocket, carrying a 1.5-ton payload. With this invention, the country joins other nations in ranks of advanced space-faring.
South Korea Launches Nuri, First-Ever Domestically-Developed Space Rocket
Thursday marks an important day in the history of South Korea as the country launches its first-ever domestic space rocket. However, the rocket carries a 1.5-ton payload as it joins the ranks of advanced space-faring nations.
So far, the Korean country didn’t launch any domestic space rocket. Officially called The Korea Space Launch Vehicle 2, it is also known as “Nuri”. The rocket rose upwards from the launch site in Goheung trailing, with a column of smoke and flame. Moreover, the TV commentator stated that “it looks as if the rocket is soaring into the sky without any problems”. Besides that, the rocket reached 600 kilometers in altitude in just a matter of minutes.
South Korea’s Advancement in Science and Technology
Undoubtedly, South Korea is one of the well-developed nations in the world. The country has risen to become the world’s 12th largest economy. Moreover, it is well known for its advancements in technology and science. Unlike Kim Jong-Un’s North Korea, the country is filled with life and vigor. Besides that, the country is home to several smartphone brands and memory chip companies including Samsung Electronics. Although the country has made history in several fields, it lagged in the category of space venture. However, in 1957, the Soviet Union led the way with the first satellite, which was followed by the USA.
More About Nuri
Several Asian countries like India, China, and Japan; have inscribed their names in golden letters when it comes to space advancements. Besides that, the country’s neighbor, North Korea; also remains in headlines every now and then for its satellite launching capacity. As of now, only six nations have successfully launched a one-ton payload on their domestically-developed rockets. However, this list doesn’t include North Korea.
South Korea will become the seventh country on the list; if its 1.5-ton Nuri successfully enters into orbit. The space rocket took a decade to develop at a cost of 2 trillion. It weighs 200 tonnes and is approximately 155 feet (47.2 meters) long. Besides that, six liquid fuel engines are fitted into the space rocket. Moreover, the country has not collaborated with NASA; or any other international space organization for the launch of their vehicle.