Tags: Russia, South Korea, Satellite Launch, KSLV
Publication: Phys.org
Publication Date: 11/13/2012

The first launch of KSLV-1 from Baikonur August 25, 2009. Image credit: Khrunichev

After cancelling a satellite launch last month due to a defective part, South Korea is eager to make another attempt at it. However, the nation can’t go through with its plan until Russia delivers the new parts.

The clock is ticking for the backup launch window that started on November 9 and will end on the 24. If the parts don’t arrive before Wednesday, November 14, the launch would be postponed again because once the parts arrive, it takes approximately 10 days to refit the rocket and place it back on the launch pad.

The initial launch was scheduled for October 26 but it was cancelled due to the discovery of a broken rubber seal in the connector between the launch pad and the rocket’s first stage. It was not reported as a serious flaw but the parts were sent back to its manufacturers in Russia for revision.

If the launch were postponed again, South Korea would have to consult with international agencies to schedule a new period all over again.

In 2009 the rocket achieved orbit but was unsuccessful in properly deploying the satellite and in 2010 the rocket exploded two minutes into flight. This new launch is crucial for the country to compete with Asian space powers such as China and Japan.

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