LG Science Park and Space Aviation Agency Discuss Strategies for Advancing the Space Industry

Visit to Space Aviation Agency Headquarters in Sacheon on November 14
Exploring Collaboration in Communication Modules, Batteries, Home Appliances, and Data Centers
Considering CubeSat Launch by 2028

On November 14, LG Science Park visited the headquarters of the Space Aviation Agency in Sacheon, South Gyeongsang Province, to discuss cooperation related to the aerospace industry. Following a previous meeting at LG Science Park in Magok-dong, Seoul, in June, the two organizations discussed more concrete collaboration plans this time.

Cube satellite under consideration for launch by LG Science Park. NASA

Key technology executives from LG Group attended the meeting, including LG Science Park CEO Jung Sooheon, LG Science Park Head of Technology Strategy Kim Minsu, and LG Science Park Head of Global Open Innovation Park Taehong. From the Space Aviation Agency, Commissioner Yoon Youngbin, Deputy Commissioner Noh Kyungwon, and Director of Industry Han Changheon were present.

During the meeting, LG shared its technology validation plans and strategic direction for entering the space industry and proposed various avenues for collaboration with the Space Aviation Agency. In particular, LG announced its intention to leverage the diverse technologies and capabilities it has accumulated-such as communication modules, cameras, batteries, home appliances, displays, and data centers-centered around LG Science Park, the company’s R&D hub, to explore future innovative business models.

Additionally, LG stated that it is considering the independent launch of its own secondary payload satellite (CubeSat). The company is currently developing plans to validate its satellite payload technology, with a target launch date set for 2028. While LG participated in the upcoming fourth launch of the Nuri rocket on November 27 through a CubeSat consortium, it plans to accelerate its expansion into the space industry by launching its own CubeSat in the future.

A CubeSat is an ultra-small satellite with a standard size of 10×10×10 cm. It is used for various missions, including Earth observation and technology validation. The Space Aviation Agency has selected CubeSats to be loaded onto the fourth and fifth Nuri rocket launches through open calls targeting industry, research institutes, and government agencies. A total of 12 CubeSats will be launched together during the imminent fourth Nuri rocket launch.

CEO Jung Sooheon stated, "We wish for the successful execution of the fourth Nuri rocket launch, and LG will use this opportunity to validate a variety of components." He also emphasized, "LG aims to proactively secure 'winning tech' that can succeed in future markets, and the space industry is one of the areas we are preparing for the future." He added, "By focusing on LG Science Park, we will pioneer new territory in the space market and strive to contribute to the development of the national space industry."

Conceptual diagram of the CubeSat operation under launch review by LG Science Park. Space Aviation Agency

LG has consistently shown interest in the space industry and is actively pursuing related initiatives. In 2023, LG Science Park selected the country's only lunar exploration rover developer, Unmanned Exploration Research Institute, as a startup to nurture and has supported it through its incubator program since last year. In January, the LG Technology Council, which brings together technology executives from each affiliate, examined the future and opportunities of the space industry. Cho Namseok, CEO of Unmanned Exploration Research Institute, who is collaborating with LG, also attended the meeting. He discussed various market opportunities for cooperation with LG affiliates and proposed several collaboration models related to the rover's activities, such as recording and transmitting on-site conditions during precision scientific exploration missions.

On November 12, LG Energy Solution announced that it has begun developing aerospace battery cells in partnership with the U.S. startup South 8. This collaboration is also part of the "Aerospace Project" promoted by KULR Technology Group and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). South 8 is the world's first startup to develop liquefied gas electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries. Going forward, LG Energy Solution plans to manufacture final battery cells using liquefied gas electrolytes, specialized injection technology, and special exterior materials in collaboration with South 8.

LG Energy Solution was also selected as a lithium-ion battery supplier for NASA's space exploration suits in 2016. The spacesuit batteries serve as the heart of advanced equipment essential for astronaut survival, such as oxygen supply devices, communication equipment, and radiation detectors. LG Energy Solution's batteries passed NASA's conservative and rigorous testing standards with top marks.

According to global market research firm Precedence Research, the global aerospace market was valued at $476.6 billion (about 696 trillion won) last year, is expected to reach $512 billion (about 748 trillion won) this year, and is projected to grow to approximately $1.0121 trillion (about 1,478 trillion won) by 2034. Investment bank Morgan Stanley also forecasts that the global space industry will reach $590 billion (about 862 trillion won) by 2030 and $1.1 trillion (about 1,607 trillion won) by 2040.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.