Rocket Lab to Launch Korean Earth Observation Satellite, NASA Solar Sail Demo

A Rocket Lab mission will soon send the NEONSAT-1, a Korean Earth observation satellite designed for disaster monitoring, and NASA’s Advanced Composite Solar Sail System, a technology demonstration for a solar sail propulsion system, into space.

Using the Electron launch vehicle, the “Beginning of the Swarm” mission satellites will be sent into separate orbits from Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand within a 14-day launch window beginning on April 24, Rocket Lab said. 

Developed by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and the Satellite Technology Research Center, NEONSAT-1 will employ a high-resolution optical camera and artificial intelligence to provide insights for disaster preparedness and response. The satellite is the first in a planned NEONSAT constellation.

Meanwhile, NASA’s ACS3 will test new materials and structures for a solar sail propulsion system, which harnesses sunlight for movement. The technology could enable missions such as space weather monitoring, asteroid reconnaissance and exploration of the sun’s polar regions without the need for traditional rocket fuel.

“Beginning of the Swarm” will be Rocket Lab’s fifth mission of 2024 and the company’s 47th Electron launch overall. The launch will also be broadcast live on Rocket Lab’s website.