– Space verification of a total of 10 types of payloads, including Samsung Electronics (DRAM, NAND), KAIST (ADC/DAC ASIC), and MID Co. (8 types of localized space-qualified devices, including SRAM)
[Related National Task] 28. Fostering 'NEXT' Strategic Technologies to Lead the World
The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA, Administrator Yoon Youngbin), and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) announced on Thursday, December 18, that the E3T*-1 satellite has successfully completed its initial system checks and is now entering its primary mission phase to verify domestically produced space components under the "Domestic Space Device and Part Space Verification Support Project."
* Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Tester
Following its launch on November 27 aboard the fourth flight of the Nuri rocket, the E3T-1 successfully established two-way communication on Thursday, December 4. Subsequent initial system checks and payload commissioning were conducted, with data analysis on Wednesday, December 17, confirming that all systems are functioning normally. Consequently, the satellite is set to commence its official space verification mission*.
* The mission aims to secure "space heritage" for domestic R&D achievements by confirming normal operation in space and collecting relevant data.
The E3T-1, developed as a 12U CubeSat (1U = 10cm x 10cm x 10cm), will operate at an altitude of 600km for the next 6 to 12 months. Its primary task is to verify domestic R&D achievements, including South Korean-made devices, parts, and semiconductors. The satellite’s bus (4U) was co-developed by KARI and Nara Space Technology. The payload (8U) features Samsung Electronics' DRAM and NAND, KAIST’s (Mixed-Signal IC Lab) ADC/DAC ASIC, and MID Co.’s SRAM, which includes 8 types of space-qualified devices* localized by KASA in 2024.
*These include SRAM (MID), D-sub connectors (Yonhap Precision), Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitors (Samwha Capacitor), Thermistors (Lattron), Heaters (Paru Electronics), Magnetics (Sensorpia), Resistors (Smart Electronics Inc.), and Schottky Diodes (Sigetronics, Memspack), all developed with support from KASA’s "Space Development Infrastructure Establishment and Outcome Dissemination Project" (2020-2024).
Chang-heon Han, Director General of the Aerospace Industry Department at KASA, emphasized, "With the start of the E3T-1 mission, we are now able to secure vital space heritage for domestic devices and parts." He added, "We plan to continue providing verification opportunities for homegrown technologies to support our 'K-Space' ambitions."