▲ An image of the next-generation environmental and ocean observation satellite, Cheollian-6, is seen in this photo provided by the Korea AeroSpace Administration on Aug. 25, 2026. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

By Kim Eun-jung

SEOUL, Aug. 25 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will develop a next-generation environmental and ocean observation satellite by 2033 to succeed the current geostationary satellite, the country's space agency said Tuesday.

The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) said the proposal to develop the Cheollian-6 satellite has passed a preliminary feasibility review for a state-funded research and development project.

The proposed satellite is scheduled for launch in 2033, with an estimated budget of about 770 billion won (US$556.7 million). It will take over the observation missions of Cheollian 2B, which was launched in 2020.

Cheollian-6 will be tasked with monitoring the environment and oceans, enabling authorities to more quickly detect and track air and marine pollution as well as maritime disasters.

The geostationary satellite will be developed using homegrown technologies, including a hybrid propulsion system. It will also be equipped with instruments capable of simultaneously conducting both environmental and ocean observations from a fixed position relative to the Earth, according to KASA.

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