SNIPE Satellites to be Launched Next Year

Imaginary drawing of SNIPE nanosatellites in operation

South Korea’s small-scale magnetospheric and ionospheric plasma experiment (SNIPE) nanosatellites are scheduled to be launched in the first half of next year. A total of four units will be put into operation for space weather observation, satellite communication integrity maintenance, etc.

The Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute unveiled the satellites on Dec. 15 after four years of development. The weight of each unit is approximately 10 kilograms and its size is close to that of a desktop computer. In most cases, satellites for communication or observation purposes have a weight of 500 kilograms to 1,000 kilograms. The size and weight of the SNIPE satellite have contributed to development and launch cost reduction.

The performance of the four units is not proportional to their size. This is because they fly in formation. The units will show the world’s first formation flight of nanosatellites at an altitude of 500 kilometers. By this method, space plasma distribution can be more precisely observed than by single satellite-based observation.

The main objective of the satellites is to scientifically define the interaction between solar wind and the magnetic field of the earth. An intense solar wind results in damage to power grids, satellite communication problems, and so on. The satellites are expected to help reduce such problems.

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