S. Korea to Launch First Locally Developed Satellite for Ocean Observation Next Year
Yonhap News – 2025.08.17 15:25
South Korea announced Monday it will launch its first locally developed satellite dedicated to observing the world’s oceans in the first half of 2026.The satellite, named “Saeron-1,” will be launched aboard a SpaceX falcon 9 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, according to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries.
Saeron-1 is equipped with a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) that can penetrate clouds and darkness to provide all-weather, 24/7 observation of the ocean surface. This capability will be crucial for monitoring various maritime phenomena, including oil spills, illegal fishing activities, and changes in ocean currents.
The satellite will collect data on sea surface temperature, salinity, wave height, and wind speed, which will be used to improve weather forecasting, disaster response, and marine resource management.
“Saeron-1 will significantly enhance our ability to monitor and understand the ocean, which is vital for our nation’s security and economic prosperity,” Minister of Oceans and fisheries Song Sang-deuk said during a press briefing.
The progress of Saeron-1 was led by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) and involved collaboration with several domestic companies and research institutions. The project cost approximately 200 billion won (approximately $150 million).
The ministry plans to establish a ground station in Taean, South chungcheong Province, to receive and process data from Saeron-1. The data will be shared with relevant government agencies, research institutions, and the public.
With the launch of Saeron-1, South Korea aims to become a leading nation in ocean observation technology and contribute to global efforts to protect and sustainably manage the world’s oceans.
Ethiopia’s Electric Vehicle Push Faces Infrastructure Challenges
Ethiopia is making strides toward adopting electric vehicles, with a recent focus on locally assembled electric scooters near the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.The electric scooter, weighing 15 kg, offers a range of up to 30 km on a single charge, providing a potential solution for commuting in the city’s congested traffic.
Ethiopia’s shift towards electric vehicles is anticipated to reduce the country’s reliance on fuel imports, conserving valuable foreign currency. Furthermore, this transition aligns with the growing global demand for eco-pleasant technologies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
However, the transition to electric vehicles is not without its hurdles. Addis Ababa, home to over 5 million residents, experiences an unreliable electricity supply and a scarcity of repair components. Currently, Ethiopia has only two or three specialized electric car repair facilities, and owners report inconvenience and high repair costs.
A reporter’s visit to Addis Ababa in June revealed a limited presence of electric cars on the roads. The most notable obstacle remains the lack of adequate charging infrastructure. To address this, Ethiopia is actively working to establish a nationwide electric car charging network. Plans are also underway to build a battery factory in Korea to decrease reliance on imported batteries.
While Hyundai Motor has shown interest, previous attempts by private Ethiopian companies to manufacture electric cars have reportedly failed due to difficulties in sourcing materials.