Starting next February, if the same space launch vehicle is launched multiple times within five years from the same launch site, duplicate permits will not be required.
The Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA) announced that the amendment to the "Space Development Promotion Act" was promulgated on the 11th, with implementation beginning on February 12 next year.
The core of the amendment concerns the "repeated launch" of space launch vehicles. When a launch vehicle operator launches the same-specification space launch vehicle two or more times from the same launch site, they may apply for a consolidated launch permit to Woo Ju-hang-gong (Commissioner) within a five-year period. For example, launching the same rocket ten times within five years at Naro Space Center would require only one launch permit.
Under the previous law, even when repeating launches of the same vehicle, separate permits were required for each launch. Operators had to apply to Woo Ju (Commissioner) at least 180 days before the scheduled launch date and obtain approval after review before confirming the launch. This process was criticized as imposing excessive administrative burdens on the private space ecosystem.
President Lee Jae-myung also pointed out during the fifth National Space Committee meeting held last July that "it takes two years for private companies to conduct launches due to permit processing periods, which is too long," and added, "If using the same method as a previously successful launch vehicle, shouldn't this be significantly reduced?"
The Korea Aerospace Administration stated, "With this amendment, consolidated permits will be possible for planned repeated launches, enhancing predictability in project execution."
A launch safety zone system has also been newly established. Woo Ju (Commissioner) may designate areas surrounding launch facilities as launch safety zones. If buildings or marine structures are to be installed within these zones, prior consultation with the Korea Aerospace Administration is required. Launch safety zones will be designated within the minimum range necessary for safe launches of space vehicles, minimizing burdens on local communities.
The response system for space launches conducted for national security purposes has also been strengthened. For space launches carried out for national security reasons, the Minister of National Defense may issue permits directly. In cases involving urgent or classified space launches related to national security, the Ministry of National Defense will respond swiftly.
Oh Tae-seok, Woo Ju (Commissioner), stated, "This amendment establishes an institutional foundation that rationalizes launch procedures while strengthening safety management systems in response to the era of private space launches."
in TECH
