Seoul: South Korea is set to launch its multipurpose satellite, Arirang 7, from the Guiana Space Centre this week. The satellite is designed to provide high-resolution imagery for environmental monitoring, as announced by the launch operator on Monday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Arirang 7 will be launched aboard the Vega-C rocket, operated by France-based Arianespace. The launch is scheduled for 2:21 p.m. Monday (French Guiana time) or 2:21 a.m. Tuesday (Korea time). The satellite, which weighs 1,810 kilograms, is expected to be deployed into orbit 576 kilometers above Earth approximately 44 minutes after liftoff.

The Korea Aerospace Research Institute developed the satellite, which is equipped with an ultra-high-resolution electro-optical camera and an infrared sensor. This technology will enable the satellite to provide high-quality imagery for monitoring the environment, natural disasters, and analyzing urban heat islands.

If the launch is successful, it will be the ninth South Korean satellite launched by Arianespace. The Korea AeroSpace Administration plans to announce the result of its communication attempt with the satellite following the launch. Additionally, Arianespace has plans to launch the Arirang 6 satellite in the first half of 2026.